Step by Step
The following is excerpted from an article written by Pastor Joel Vano for the January newsletter of Zion Lutheran church, Albert Lea, MN. I was pastor at Zion from 1970 – 78.
I know, O Lord, that a man’s life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps. – Jeremiah 10:23
Joel begins by recalling his oldest daughter’s first steps. “There is a lesson to be learned in this simple task of walking. In order to walk from point A to point B several steps will have to be taken. The best way to do this is one step at a time.
This year is a perfect time for us to reflect upon the awesome task which God has laid before us…but how do we know where to take our first step?” Jeremiah’s words encourage us; it is not for a man to direct his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 echoes, in his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Thank god that he will be the one directing and determining our steps. So, how do we know which direction we must go…? Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. (Prov. 16:3)
As you look at specific path upon which god is leading you this year…commit your steps to the Lord…Rich Mullins says…in his song Step by Step: “I will seek you in the morning and I will learn to walk in your ways. And step by step you’ll lead me and I will follow you all of my days.”
When the tasks before us seem unusually large or especially daunting…remember that Jesus has already accomplished the impossible mission when he rose from the dead to take away our sins. Now we simply walk in his ways by the power of the Holy Spirit leading us on the path which he has already chosen for us.
God …richly bless you as you walk in his ways…Follow him wherever he leads us this year-that we might walk with God by our side every step of the way.
Comments