How Do We Acknowledge God in All Our Ways?
How Do We Acknowledge God in All Our Ways?
As Advent unfolds and the season of Christmas approaches, our focus often turns to preparing our homes, buying gifts, and planning festivities. Yet, amidst the busyness, Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) offers us a timely reminder: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take."
This passage invites us to pause, reflect, and align our lives with God's will. But how can we practically acknowledge God in all our ways during Advent and Christmas?
1. Trust Him Completely
Acknowledging God starts with trust-wholehearted trust. During Advent, we celebrate the coming of Jesus, the fulfilment of God's promise to send a Saviour. This promise reminds us that God's plans are always good, even when we don't fully understand them. Trusting Him means surrendering our fears, doubts, and plans into His hands, knowing He is faithful.
2. Submit Your Plans to Him
December often feels like a whirlwind of activity. Yet, Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us not to lean on our own understanding. Before you fill your calendar, pause and pray. Ask God how you can glorify Him in your decisions. Perhaps it's inviting someone who is lonely to your table, or spending less time worrying about gifts and more time sharing the gift of His love.
3. Seek His Presence
The season of Advent is about anticipation-waiting for Emmanuel, "God with us." To acknowledge God in all our ways means carving out time to be in His presence. Whether through Scripture, prayer, or worship, let these moments guide your heart. The Christmas story itself reminds us that the shepherds, wise men, and even Mary and Joseph sought God's presence above all else.
4. Follow His Guidance
God promises to direct our paths when we seek His will. Sometimes, His leading comes through His Word, other times through prayer or wise counsel. During this Advent season, reflect on the paths you're walking. Are you following His guidance? Are there areas of your life where you need to realign with His purposes?
5. Shine His Light
Finally, to acknowledge God is to make Him known. Christmas is a season of joy and hope, and as followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His light. A simple act of kindness, a heartfelt word, or an invitation to church can be powerful ways to point others to the true meaning of Christmas.
As we journey through Advent towards Christmas, let's embrace Proverbs 3:5-6 as a guide. Trust Him, seek Him, and honour Him in every thought, word, and action. When we acknowledge God in all our ways, we find peace, purpose, and the assurance that He is leading us to something far greater than we could ever imagine.
This Christmas, may your heart be filled with His presence, your path lit by His truth, and your life a reflection of His love.