Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.

Are you facing a situation in which you are seeking God’s guidance? You have a decision to make, challenge to overcome, or conflict to resolve. If so, you are in good company.

Over the past several months I have been regularly seeking God’s guidance on a host of upcoming decisions I need to make. I spend time in regular prayer, have sought godly counsel, and have read countless books by amazing Christian authors. While these are all great steps to take, as I was reading my morning devotion earlier this week, I was struck by one specific statement. That author said, “He [God] wants us to be fully engaged in His Word before we ask Him for specific words for today.”

Now, this statement is not exactly overly profound, if anything it states the obvious. However, hear me out. I love the Bible. I love reading it. I love studying it. I believe it is the inspired Word of God and I cannot begin to share all of the ways God has spoken to me through it over the years. But here is the thing. If I am honest, I would have to say there have been many times I have sought God’s guidance through various avenues without having first sought His guidance through His Word – the very means He regularly uses to speak to us.

As I thought on this, a quote from Ronald Reagan came to mind. Reagan once said, “Within the covers of the Bible are the answers for all the problems men face.” I couldn’t agree more.

I have to wonder if some of the times I ask God for His guidance He is not lovingly thinking, “Just read my Word. I have already told you exactly what to do. The answers are right in front of you, just take the time to seek them out.”

Like trying to put together a newly purchased item that needs to be assembled without first reading the instructions, when we try to make our way through life without first consulting God’s instructions to us, we will end up frustrated, confused, and further behind than when we started.

Purpose with me today to pour into God’s Word personally. If you don’t regularly do so, commit to spend time daily in His Word. If you are not sure where to start, consider using a one year Bible reading plan such as those found on http://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-reading-plan/. Another great option is to begin by reading a chapter in Proverbs every day as there is a chapter for each day of the month. Whatever works for you, read God’s Word.

If we approach God’s letter to us with an open heart, humble spirit, and willing attitude He will speak to us and provide us with the guidance we are looking for. Let us always remember, when we need to hear from God, first things first – be in His Word.