Lost

O my people in Jerusalem, you shall weep no more, for he will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry. He will answer you. Though he give you the bread of adversity and water of affliction, yet he will be with you to teach you - with your own eyes you will see your Teacher. And if you leave God's paths and go astray, you will hear a Voice behind you say, "No, this is the way; walk here." Isaiah 30:19-21 (TLB)

Melanie S. Fretz lives in Pennsylvania. Whether navigating through hospital corridors or down country roads, Melanie is easily disoriented. She usually ends up making a wrong turn or two and has to turn around. Part of the problem is that Melanie is easily distracted and doesn't pay attention to the landmarks and signs posted along the way.

Sometimes our spiritual journey is like this. We may become distracted and miss the guidance God gives us. When we're lost, we can find our way back to God by purposefully seeking God and listening for God's guidance.

When we read and meditate on God's word, pray, and worship, we are more attuned to God's gentle promptings. Regular fellowship with other believers also helps us stay focused on God. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that we will hear a word guiding our steps when we make a conscious effort to listen to God. Even when we feel disconnected from God, we can find peace in the promise that God is waiting and will guide our steps.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for being our Gentle Shepherd and for your promise to lead us and guide us always, in Jesus' name. Amen.