In saying goodbye to Dr. Stanley two months ago, we lost our wonderful pastor. But we don’t grieve as those without hope—in fact, we’ve been celebrating his life and ministry. And we’re honored to carry his legacy into the future. His wisdom is still with us and being shared around the world, from person to person. And we look forward to continuing to bring his teachings to you every month.
In this month’s letter, let’s look together at some of Dr. Stanley’s thoughts on living by God’s guidance.
Following the Lord’s lead, step by step—whether big or small—was a central focus of Charles Stanley’s life and ministry. And it’s just as vital to our walk with Christ. We hope these words encourage you today toward an ever greater, joyful obedience.
Friend, I’d like you to take a moment right now and ask yourself what is really guiding your life.
How do you operate, form desires, and make decisions on a daily basis? Are you led by a mental perspective, by feelings, by another person? Those motivations are all common, but they won’t lead to a healthy and growing spiritual life, nor are they what God wants for you.
No, God wants you to live according to one thing only—the relationship you have with Him, the One Who gives you strength, clarity, and guidance. If you’ll heed Him, trust Him, and make His will your own, He will lead you flawlessly in every area of your life.
Do you recall how God led the Hebrews out of Egypt and into the Promised Land? Well, that journey should have taken several weeks, but instead it took 40 years. Why? It’s simply because they didn’t live by God’s guidance. They became fearful, rebellious, and doubtful. Because of that, a generation died in the desert before God’s people entered the land they’d been promised.
We can have a different outcome—if we keep our eyes on the Lord. Now, something people have asked me about often over the years is—How do I follow God? How do I know His will? Many believers think that’s a mystery, but it isn’t.
There are things you can, indeed must, do to live according to God’s guidance each day.
So, let’s consider how to walk in step with the Lord.
First, meditate on the Word of God.
In the wilderness, the Hebrews didn’t have God’s Word preserved and accessible. But we do. Later, in Israel, David wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105). God’s Word will ensure you get to the right place at the right time, for every situation you face in life. No matter what you are going through, Scripture will direct you—if you read it, stay familiar with it, and keep it foremost in your thoughts.
Second, remain sensitive to the Holy Spirit.
Before Jesus ascended to the Father, He promised to send His disciples a Helper. The Holy Spirit would come to indwell every believer: “When He, the Spirit of truth, comes,” Jesus said, “He will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13). You have someone living within Who will guide you according to the will of God in all things. But it’s necessary to pay attention and spend time in prayer, in order to be sensitive to His voice.
Third, wait for God’s timing.
This verse has always been especially meaningful to me: “From days of old they have not heard or perceived by ear… a God besides You, Who acts in behalf of one who waits for Him” (Isa. 64:4). Sometimes God makes us wait, not only for His actions, but also for His guidance. Patience in prayer is essential if you want to hear what God desires to share.
Fourth, follow Him even when you don’t understand.
It can be difficult to follow the Lord when you don’t understand why He’s guiding you in a particular direction. But God does not require you to understand His will, only to obey it, even when it seems unreasonable. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Prov. 3:5-6).
Finally, be strong and courageous.
To walk in the Spirit of God requires deep conviction and courage to resist other pressures. The world is full of external influences that will pull you from God’s will, and your own heart may be an even greater temptation. Decide today to live by the guidance of God, no matter what He says or where He leads you. Remember what He told Joshua as the Hebrews were finally about to enter their promised land:
“Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Josh. 1:9). God is with you. I hope you’ll follow Him today.
It’s our privilege to continue sharing words like these from Dr. Stanley with you.
We pray they’ll inspire you to walk joyfully with your Savior this month—obeying Him and following His lead wherever you go. God bless you, till next time.
For His Glory,
Your Friends at In Touch Ministries