Perhaps you’ve wanted God to tell you what he wants you to do. Maybe receiving a set of marching orders seems appealing for its clarity and simplicity. Perhaps you’re frustrated with the vagueness of your direction and want God to steer you into it, just as a horseman maneuvers with bit and bridle by tugging on the reins. The Lord has one word for you: no.
Actually, he may lead you that way from time to time, but that’s not his preference. The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control” (Psalm 32:8-9 NLT). He prefers to be intensely relational—the spiritual equivalent of face-to-face in all his conversations. He will rarely let you settle for marching orders.
God’s primary means for moving you is not instruction, rebuke, or discipline. It’s vision. It’s important to have a vision that comes from him, and for that vision to be strong enough to pull you through obstacles, opposition, and detours. Otherwise, you’ll shrink away from problems whenever you encounter them, seeking a life of convenience rather than a life of growth and purpose. Your vision becomes your mission, and your mission is why you’re here.
Cultivate vision. Ask for it. Guided by the Spirit, learn to envision your future. Then pursue your vision with all prayer and zeal and everything else you’ve got. Your direction—and your fulfillment—will be far more satisfying than that of a servant under orders.
