The shifting in our souls comes unbidden. Change is on the way. Undefined and unexplained. Untraceable.
Yet we know.
This surprises. Perplexes. How do we leave the incomplete? People we love? Those yet to turn and follow Christ?
We bring questions and loose ends before Him. Wrestle in prayer. Wanting specifics, really.
Silence.
God’s method
The daily reading is Romans that month. And one day I’m in Romans 11. Hearing Paul address deep theological issues. About Israel and what happens to God’s chosen people.
The mystery of God’s method intrigues. Presented here with captivating imagery. Wild olive branches grafted into the rich root of the cultivated olive tree.
I’m drawn to the details of His ways. And curiosity leads me to dig deeper. Usually.
But not today.
Hymn of praise
Instead, I’m restless. Looking for an answer to “Why now, Lord?” Seeking a precise, clear “next step.” One-two-three, if you will.
Suddenly, Paul sings.
Truth and wonder pour forth.
Rhythm pulsing from his soul.
A hymn of praise. Speaking mystery.
And these few words in a spare column on the page open my eyes. To see the God who doesn’t conform to my formulas.
Untraceable ways
“O the depths of the riches
and wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable His judgments
and untraceable His ways!”
Maker of heaven and earth. Revealing. Yet keeping mystery in place. The One intimately acquainted with His creation. And deeply personal. Yet always more than we know.
His wisdom
“For who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been His counselor?
And who has ever given to God
that he should be repaid?”
The smallness of my understanding is apparent. Me and our next step are not the point.
He is.
And His purpose. His wisdom. His glory.
“For from Him and though Him
and to Him are all things.
To Him be glory forever. Amen.”
Romans 11:33-36
Invitation
The song gives a benediction.
Moving to an invitation.
In the very next verse.
“Therefore, brothers and sisters,
in view of the mercies of God,
I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice,
holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.
Do not be conformed to this age
but be transformed by the renewing of your mind,
so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”
Romans 12:1-2
Presenting ourselves holy. Completely.
Not dead weight. But alive and surrendered.
Transformed to walk in His ways untraceable.
With eyes on His mercies immeasurable.
Glory to God forever! Great is His faithfulness.
What about you?
Have you ever questioned the timing of a move? Wanted specifics about what’s ahead? How did you learn to walk in His untraceable ways?
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Be holy – Words – Stability – Follow Me – Mystery revealed – Temporary nest –
4 replies on “Untraceable ways”
Two passages collided in my heart recently – Exodus 33:12-17 and John 14 – completely different situations, but moments with dramatic change on the horizon. I had never seen the similarities and it washed over me with such comfort – knowing that God remembers we are dust and He will give us exactly what we need for each situation!
Just looked at those two passages and love this insight. What an encouragement in this day. Thank you for sharing, sister.
Thank you dear one for showing us this truth. Sometimes we feel we are the ONLY ONE going through a situation or move and not understanding. I believe HE protects us for knowing all, so we can trust HIM more, and to keep our mind on today and HIS WILL for the present!!
Amen, sister! Thanks for sharing that truth. Grace to you.