We often assume that receiving a clear direction, or word from God about an assignment or purpose guarantees a path that is seamless. This belief comes from the comforting notion that if it’s truly God’s will, He wouldn’t lead us into challenging situations but that is often not the case. This ideal fills our hearts with excitement, driving us to eagerly pursue the journey laid out before us. However, when we encounter unexpected obstacles or roadblocks, we may begin to doubt whether we genuinely heard God’s voice. In those moments, many struggle with wavering faith, allowing fear, anxiety, and doubt to take hold.

Consider Moses, one of the most remarkable figures in the Bible, who faced numerous challenges while fulfilling God’s calling on his life. He had a supernatural encounter at the burning bush, where he heard God’s voice clearly commanding him to go to Egypt and rescue the Israelites from Pharaoh’s oppression (see Exodus 3). Initially hesitant, Moses ultimately surrendered to God’s assignment, trusting that He would guide him in leading the Israelites from slavery to the Promised Land.

Upon arriving in Egypt, Moses and his brother Aaron went to Pharaoh, asking for the Israelites’ release. Instead of compliance, they were met with staunch opposition—Pharaoh increased the Israelites’ burdens, making their situation even more dire. The reaction of the Israelites, who blamed Moses for their increased suffering, was both unexpected and disheartening. In that moment of confusion, Moses could have succumbed to despair, questioning why God’s assurances seemed to falter.

Yet, Moses chose a different path. He returned to the Lord with his doubts and concerns, seeking the One who had enlisted him for this difficult mission. In Exodus 6 and Exodus 7, we witness a profound dialogue where God reassures Moses, unveiling layers of His plan, directions and pouring forth encouragement. As God and Moses continue to dialogue with every challenge he faces, Moses’s resolve is revitalized to pursue the assignment he was destined for.

²² So Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Lord, why have You brought trouble on this people? Why is it You have sent me? ²³ For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in Your name, he has done evil to this people; neither have You delivered Your people at all.” – Exodus 5:22 NKJV

Throughout his journey, Moses maintained a consistent pattern of seeking God’s guidance, especially during moments of adversity. God continually proved faithful, offering direction and clarity in the face of challenges. This ongoing communication not only strengthened their bond but also deepened Moses’s understanding of God, ultimately elevating him to the status of a friend of God.

¹¹ The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent. – Exodus 33:11

In reflecting on Moses’s example, dear one, let us adopt Moses’ practice of diligently seeking God throughout our own journeys. Scripture promises that God is always present for those who earnestly seek Him. His Word declares that if we seek Him wholeheartedly, we will find Him, and He will unveil unsearchable mysteries to us – Jeremiah 33:3.

How do we return to the Lord

1. Prayer and Meditation on God’s Word – We return to the Lord to gain vital understanding, strength, revelation, and redirection on our divinely ordained path. This act of returning involves earnest prayer and delving into His Word. Revisit the promises God has spoken over your life—they may hold insights you didn’t grasp at first.
2. Surrendering to the Spirit of God – Bring your doubts, misunderstandings, and questions to your Heavenly Father in prayer; ask for His guidance to navigate the challenges that lie before you. Remember, the assignment is not about personal accolades; it is about revealing God’s glory, magnifying His name, and manifesting His Kingdom here on earth. When we embrace this truth, we can humble ourselves and yield to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to work powerfully through us.
3. It is all about God: Too often, our worries stem from a misplaced sense of responsibility, where we think our reputation is at stake rather than God’s. We must remind ourselves that it is never about us; it is always about God.
4. Seek to be transformed in fulfilling the Assignment – Just as Moses returned to the Lord when faced with resistance to His instructions, we too must seek the Lord when pursuing a calling, purpose, or vision entrusted to us, especially when we encounter difficulties. When challenges arise in fulfilling our divine assignment, let us return to the Lord and earnestly inquire how to proceed with His purpose. Within every obstacle lies the potential for growth and a deeper understanding of our calling. Embrace this journey with unwavering faith, knowing that God is with you every step of the way.

Beloved, in the journey of obeying God’s word, it’s essential to recognize that God cares more about our transformation into Christ’s likeness and our intimate knowledge of Him than the grand successes we might aim for in fulfilling our assignments. As we reflect on the path ahead, consider this: when the assignment concludes, will you still be found abiding in Christ? Or will you have veered off course, relying on your own methods to accomplish what you believed was your calling, all while missing the presence of God in the process?

Let us commit to being faithful, constantly returning to God, especially when we feel distant from Him. It’s through this relationship that we gain true strength, understanding, and the ability to navigate challenges. Staying close to Him ensures that our work is aligned with His will and filled with His grace. Remember, the journey is not just about what we achieve, but also about who we become along the way. Let’s prioritize our relationship with God above all else.