Feeling lost or uncertain about God’s direction in your life is a common experience. It’s easy to feel overlooked or abandoned, but the story of Ruth in the Old Testament offers a powerful reminder that God is always at work, guiding us even when we don’t realize it. This article explores how to recognize God’s guidance and understand His will in your life.
God’s Guiding Hand in Everyday Circumstances
Consider this verse from the book of Ruth:
So she departed and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the portion of the field belonging to Boaz (Ruth 2:3).
At first glance, this seems like a simple coincidence. However, the original Hebrew emphasizes the element of chance: “her chance chanced upon the portion of the field belonging to Boaz.” Unbeknownst to Ruth, this seemingly random encounter led her to the man she would eventually marry.
This illustrates how God often works in our lives through seemingly insignificant events and “chance” encounters. He is present in the places we “happen” to be, orchestrating circumstances for our good and His purpose.
Understanding God’s Will: Two Types of Decisions
When seeking God’s guidance, it’s helpful to differentiate between two types of decisions:
1. Right/Wrong Decisions: These are moral choices clearly defined in Scripture. God’s will is explicitly stated in His commandments. For example, the Bible teaches that believers should only marry other believers. In such cases, prayer is not needed to determine God’s will, as it is already clear.
2. Right/Left Decisions: These involve choices that aren’t inherently right or wrong. Which believer should I marry? What career path should I pursue? These decisions fall within the boundaries of God’s moral will, but the specific direction may not be immediately obvious.
The multitude of options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to discern God’s will.
Coincidences as God’s Choices: Providence in Action
What we perceive as “chance” occurrences are often the result of God’s providence. Ruth took the initiative to work and provide for herself, and God directed her to Boaz’s field. This demonstrates that our plans and God’s will are not mutually exclusive. Rather, God uses our plans and actions to accomplish His purposes, even turning the malicious intentions of others into good (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28).
Reflect on your own life. How has God used seemingly insignificant coincidences, chance conversations, or unexpected events to guide you? Can you see His hand in the “verses” of your life?
The Key: Move, Then Let God Guide
The will of God is not a passive force that descends upon us after a period of isolation and meditation. Ruth experienced God’s best after she took the initiative to act within the boundaries of His moral will. God then guided her in His timing.
Ruth provides a valuable example of how to discern God’s will: Take action, and then allow God to guide and redirect you.
Despite current feelings of uncertainty, trust that God is working to guide you. While providence is often understood in hindsight, we can embrace it by faith today.
Embrace God’s Guidance
Recognizing God’s guidance involves understanding His will, acting in faith, and trusting that He is working even when we can’t see the full picture. By understanding the difference between right/wrong and right/left decisions and recognizing His hand in our daily lives, we can confidently navigate life’s challenges with the assurance that God is leading us every step of the way.
Consider the “coincidences” in your life. How has the Lord used them to guide you?
