Over the years in my ministry, I have heard from a lot of people who want to know how the Lord leads us to leave something behind, in order to move into something new and different. Since there are no surefire methods or formulas to gain this kind of knowledge, I always tell them that they need to hear from God for themselves. One thing I do share with them is that I have noticed that, in many cases, the Lord allows our present situation to become almost unbearable. My husband, Joe, experienced this very thing when the Lord wanted him to retire, but my husband was resistant, and even fearful to do so. God gave him a boss that was utterly intolerable to work for, and Joe finally recognized the fact that it was a divine hand that had orchestrated the whole thing. And he finally did retire. Looking back, my husband said that it was the best thing that could have happened to him.

I have also noticed that sometimes, the Lord removes His grace from a job or career we have been in, and it becomes boring or tedious for us, even if we had enjoyed it in the past. This happened to me years ago, when I was involved with the high school Bible club that my children led for several years. I originally loved all of the work and responsibilities that were involved, even though they were at times wearing me out. Just before my youngest son graduated, my club obligations became tedious and burdensome. When my involvement with the club finally came to an end, letting go was a welcome relief.

Some familiar Bible verses tell us: "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." (Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT) Remember this: God's will is knowable and doable for the one who is devoted to Him. When we seek His guidance in any given situation - and we seek Him with a submissive spirit - He will direct and redirect our steps as necessary, so that we may walk in His will. We can ask questions such as, "Lord, do You want me to stay or to go?" "Do You have something else for me to do?" "Would You open a new door of opportunity for me, so that I may experience more joy and satisfaction in my work?" As we seek the Lord every step of the way, we can count on His patience and His faithfulness. Is He urging you to call upon Him for some specific guidance today?

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to seek Your will with a submissive spirit in every area of my life. Open new doors of opportunity for me that no one can shut, and help me to make the most of them as soon as You send them. Bless me and use me in new and exciting ways for Your glory. Thank You that as I follow Your lead on a moment-by-moment basis, I will experience Your supernatural peace and joy!