Leading When You Feel Lost

Stand by the pathways and look.
Ask about the ancient paths:
Which is the way to what is good?
Then take it, and find rest for your souls.
– Jeremiah 6:16

Most of us live from day to day wanting more of God’s Kingdom promises – for ourselves, and for our families.

That longing for “more” and “better” often turns into frustration and defeat – especially when personal shame and struggles impede our ability to be co-creators and co-redeemers with Christ. We feel we cannot lead.

But lead we must.

As we lead our tribe into God’s Kingdom we serve as a trail guide for them: “This path is the one we want – follow me!” “Watch your step along this stretch – it is difficult!”

But when we feel ill equipped to lead? Feel we can’t find the way? Sense that we are failing?

Who will lead us on the right paths?

Sarah and I have been where you are.

And it is when we recognize that we can’t do it – can’t go further – that we become most willing to be shown and “filled.”

In those times we sit down by the path and say: “If you don’t show me the way, I will remain lost – me and the people who are with me.”

Good. Stay there. Stay seated. Wait for your guide. Call for your guide.

Trail runners who have gone before you did the same. Here is how they called for help:

Make Your ways known to me, LORD;
teach me Your paths. Guide me […];
I wait for You all day long.
 – Psalm 25:4&5

Help me stay on the path of your commands,
for I take pleasure in it.
– Psalm 119:35

Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD […]
He will teach us about His ways
so that we may walk in His paths.
– Isaiah 2:3

You may want to make one of these your daily prayer. Perhaps multiple times a day. It might be the only thing you have heart to do. And it could be the most important step you take in leading your family well.