We weren’t on the trail for long before we had to make a decision. A fork in the path presented two different options: If we turned to the right, a steep incline of steps and uneven rocks greeted us. But if we stayed left, the incline was more gradual and smooth.
Since my husband and I had dogs and this was our first time hiking the trail together, we chose the easier way without hesitation. Later, we discovered that both paths converged at the top of the mountain, leading to the same vista. No matter which way we had turned at the beginning, we would have reached the same view.
Although I made the hiking choice with confidence, my spiritual life is sometimes the opposite. In life, I face thousands of decisions, and I’m sure you do too. Some of them are minor, and others may be life-altering, but each of them requires guidance and intention.
Every now and then, I encounter a major life decision where there are two choices, like the fork in the trail, and I must decide which way to turn. The problem is when both of them appear to be God-led. This happened to me several months ago when I had job opportunities at two companies, both with values I respected.
In situations like this, I often approach God’s will as though I’m taking a multiple-choice test. I think there is one correct answer, and if I don’t choose it, my life will be thrown into turmoil.
But if we look at Scripture, we rarely see God work in this way. Yes, some decisions dishonor God, and sin is always the wrong answer. But when we approach His will like a test, we forget one of the most faith-building gifts He gives us: the ability to make good decisions.
In the book of Isaiah, God speaks to the Israelites through his chosen prophet. His people have wandered from Him numerous times, and yet He says:
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it’”(Isaiah 30:21).
But do you notice something? The promise doesn’t say God’s people would hear from Him only if they turned to the right or only if they turned to the left. It says that in each direction, they would hear God’s voice of guidance.
Sometimes we encounter decisions where multiple paths honor God.
Each will grow our faith in new ways and cause us to use our God-given gifts. God wants us to seek Him in prayer and make a choice. Either way, He’ll show us the next step He wants us to take.
You may be thinking, I’ve stepped out in faith before, and it didn’t turn out well … Friend, I get it. The fear of putting ourselves out there again is real. While the outcome is not guaranteed, God does guarantee His continual presence.
After a lot of hesitation and prayer, I finally made the career decision. I looked at my family’s needs, the time required, and other factors. Afterward, I felt peace. Even after a challenging first week on the job, I knew I was in my sweet spot, and confidence that could only come from God covered me. Expectant of the future, I haven’t looked back.
An Invitation
Do you feel stuck in a decision you need to make, doubting your ability to hear from God? Do you sense that He is prompting you to take a step of faith, but you’re waiting for another sign? Friend, I know what it’s like to spend more time in my head than responding to God’s voice.
That’s why I wrote Surrendering Certainty. If you’re tired of doubting, spinning your wheels, and hesitating rather than moving forward, this book will meet you there.
Here’s what readers are saying:
“Honestly, I wish I could give this 100 stars. I got so much out of it, I can’t put it all into words. I’m definitely going to read it again, more slowly next time, so I can make notes and digest everything God has been saying to me through this beautiful book. ” – Alex
Surrendering Certainty will show you:
- How to confidently discern God’s voice without constant second-guessing.
- Why decision-making is a spiritual act that strengthens faith.
- Biblical truths about letting go of control and trusting God’s promises for today.
If you’re looking for a clear, practical approach to hearing God’s voice and guidance to overcome fear so you can trust Him fully, this book is for you.
*This post contains affiliate links. You can read my affiliate disclosure here.
I have this book, Surrendering Certainty, and I think I’m going back to my marked up copy and read it again. It spoke truth to my weary heart then, and now, after coming across this devo referencing it again, I am overwhelmed at the strength I live today…not my strength but Jesus in charge makes all the difference. I would encourage anyone to pray, read, ponder, and allow the Holy Spirit to “teach us all things”! Blessings on anyone who opens these pages…Surrendering Certainty….what a great title. His way is “easy” once I could get past myself…holding w a suffocating grip…letting go into His Trustworthy Hands. Be blessed!