When I walked into our first marriage counseling session ten years ago I didn't know what to expect. It was daunting to me because I had this ingrained belief I had created that said—you only go to a counselor if something is terribly wrong with you. Looking back now I see how outrageously wrong that perspective was. The Bible even says in Proverbs 15:22 "in the multitude of counselors there is safety."
Godly counsel is incredibly rewarding.
I now see a life-coach monthly. She's a mentor, counselor and mother in the faith that I admire greatly. She's honest with me, seeing my faults yet calling out my potential in the process. She's a couple decades my senior and has walked through so much with God. There's one thing I've noticed through my precious time with her over the years that rings out in my heart.
As I frequently sit snotty nosed before her, vulnerably expressing my situations, circumstances, inner joys and struggles she asks me the same question. "Jamie, have you IOTL-ed this thing? Have you Inquired of the Lord?"
Make it a Matter of Prayer.
If you read through first and second Samuel, you will see a recurring phrase when it comes to the life of David: “David inquired of the Lord" (1 Samuel 30:8). David asked God about every major decision in his life and God continually gave him direction. I believe God wants to do the same for you and I.
Praying to God is like having a conversation with my best friend. I never doubt His motives, He always has my best interest at heart in light of kingdom purposes. When there is something in front of me that I need wisdom for, I make it a matter of prayer. I ask God about it. When I’m uniquely blessed, I pray about that, too, and thank God for the gifts He has placed in my path.
Whether in petition or gratitude, prayer changes the game in ways we couldn’t possibly imagine.
I pray with my husband a lot about things. I have friends and family that I share requests with as well. They are prayer warriors. People who believe God’s best for me regardless of my circumstances. These are friends who speak the truth in love and whisper words of purpose like a fresh wind into the sails of my destiny. They are a gift from God. Anytime there is a major life decision before me, I call on these prayer warriors to pray with me.
I believe as you pray God will give you direction, truly. But let me leave you with this final thought that this mentor and I discussed this week:
Your friendship with God can only go as far as the Lordship He holds in your life.
Meaning this: We can pray all we want for direction, for a more intimate relationship with Him, for Him to move miraculously in our life—but once He speaks, we need to be committed to follow Him in obedience—plain and simple. That is what the Lordship of Christ looks like in our lives. Obedience is key.
"Prayer is essential in our relationship with Jesus. God hears our every cry to Him. He can and will direct your life as you invite Him to be a part of the process through prayer. And once He answers that prayer—giving you direction—respond obediently to Him."
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