Godly Gals ~ Carla MacLachlan

In considering what I really want, how do I know if what I want for myself is also what my creator wants for me? How do I know when to include Him in my decision making process?

When I truly desire to know what God desires, I must choose to look at things from His perspective and that begins by searching His Word. Isaiah 48:17 says: This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel . I sense a need to stop here for a moment to review that God not only made us, but also redeemed us so we could share in an intimate relationship with Him. Therefore, He desires to regularly speak into our lives His truth and for us to consistently communicate with Him. 

Could it be that Isaiah is reminding us of God’s standard of holiness so we will continually be aware of when we are tempted to operate according to the world’s standard?

In verse 17 God Himself says, “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you,…”

God loves His children so very much that He continually desires His absolute best for them rather than what is merely good or better. Isn’t it wonderful to know that God doesn’t expect us to recognize His best on our own, but promises to teach us as we abide in Him through His Word and prayer.

Could it be that there are moments throughout my day that I am so easily willing to settle for what is good for me rather than seek God’s absolute best? Do I examine options for my children based on good verses better, or am I willing to pursue God’s best for them?

Verse 17 ends by God stating, “…Who directs you in the way you should go.”

Is anyone else experiencing an “aha” moment? In order to be directed I must be willing to follow. If I choose to consider only my wants and desires, I leave no room for God’s input, instruction, or direction. God’s direction will always result in His best path and will reflect His will. Although the path God chooses for me may not be the same path as others, in choosing His direction I am acknowledging and trusting that He knows what is best for my life. 

The next time the world asks you what you want and how you want it, I encourage you to defer those questions to God.   

 
Bio: Carla has been ministering to adults, children, and families for over 20 years. She is author of the book Parenting Moment by Moment that relates biblical principles to all ages of children, infancy through adulthood. Carla has been married for 27 years and has two grown sons.

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