Is it God's guidance or is it your anxious thoughts talking?
Psalm 32:8 (NIV):
"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you."
You often find yourself grappling with anxiety, seeking solace in prayer, and reaching for God’s guidance. Your earnest words become a plea for reassurance amidst the whirlwind of thoughts. You pray, hoping for a sign that God hears you.
In those moments of desperation, signs of answered prayers appear. A comforting warmth or a timely encounter serves as a reassuring nudge. Yet, doubt creeps in alongside the anxious thoughts. Are these signs genuinely God's doing, or just the result of an overactive mind? The struggle persists.
Past incidents weigh on your heart, adding to the uncertainty. Maybe it was that challenging decision you faced one day. The consequences of that choice linger, casting shadows of doubt on your ability to discern God's guidance. You wonder if the signs you see are mere illusions, a mirage in the desert of your anxious thoughts.
The fear of misinterpreting God's messages becomes a constant companion.
You question the authenticity of your prayers, haunted by the possibility that you might be steering your life based on self-made illusions.
You, in this struggle, are not alone. Many people, even those without anxiety, share the fear of misinterpreting the signs God provides. It is a common concern, part of the human experience. Understanding this brings a sense of unity in the journey you are on.
Amidst the uncertainties, what you can do is analyze your motives.
Take a closer look at the reasons behind your decisions. If your motivation is rooted in love, service, and seeking God's glory, it may align more closely with His guidance. Reflecting on your intentions becomes a guidepost in navigating the twists and turns of life.
Moreover, it is important to recognize that there is no shame in seeking support.
You may find yourself feeling hesitant, perhaps even ashamed, about seeking help. There is this nagging concern that reaching out to your family or church may be seen as a weakness or an unnecessary burden. Doubts may arise, making you think your struggle is not a real concern or worse, that you will be judged.
Your concerns are valid, and reaching out for help is a courageous step. Do not hesitate to lean on your family, your church community, or other trusted individuals. They can offer encouragement, share their own experiences, and pray with and for you.
Remember, seeking assistance is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your strength in acknowledging your need for guidance. Spiritual mentors, friends, and your faith community are there for a reason.
If you are still unsure, it is alright to test the guidance provided.
Think of it like testing the waters before diving into a pool. It is not a lack of trust in God; rather, it is a way to gain reassurance. Just as you dip your toes to ensure the water is not too cold or the pool not too deep, you can take small steps to test the guidance you believe you have received.
If the guidance is from God, you might experience confirmation through a sense of peace and the unfolding of events aligning with His will. After all, trusting in God's guidance involves a process, and taking those initial steps can bring the reassurance you need on your journey of faith.
Read more:
When anxiety interferes with your prayer life
