Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 There is a season a time appointed for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven— A time to be born and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to keep silent and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace.

We’ve all read this scripture at one time or another in our life. There’s even been a song written with these words. But, have we really thought about the “time” we’re given on Earth? Sure, it’s a drop in the bucket compared to eternity. But, we’ve each been given an allotted time to worship God and fulfill His purpose for our lives. It’s up to us to discover that plan because He has a great plan for us!

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster to give you a future and a hope.

It is a given that no matter what age we are, we are all called to worship God, read and study His word, and establish a solid prayer life. But, what about the everyday areas of our lives? As children we’re called to obey our parents, learn in school, play with our friends, and grow with our families. As we grow older, our plans get a little more complicated. We decide whether or not to pursue college, establish a career pathway in the secular or spiritual world, get married or stay single, and whether or not to have children or adopt or remain childless. As we grow older, we make decisions about retirement and how we spend the twilight years of our lives.

The little details in between can be clear at times while being troublesome and confusing at others. We all want to make sure the decisions we make are on track in God’s will and His timing. So, how can we know for sure if the direction we’re pursuing is the right one? What if we make a mistake and go the wrong way? First, let me assure you that if you do make a mistake and go the wrong way, God is not disturbed by this nor does He disown you. He’ll simply nudge you back in the right direction. You can never go too far that He can’t find you! So, how do we know how to follow the plan God has for us?

First, we must walk by faith.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to walk with God and please Him, for whoever comes near to God must necessarily believe that God exists and that He rewards those who earnestly and diligently seek Him.

We must put our trust in God and follow His leading. He will show you the way! God never gives you something He has not already equipped you to do. If you have an interest in the human anatomy, chances are that you are called into the medical field. If you enjoy showing others how to do things, chances are that you are called into the teaching field. If you have an interest the justice system, chances are that you are called to pursue a career in law or law enforcement. If you look deep inside yourself, what you enjoy doing most is probably what your called to. God would never call you into something you hate. So, step out in faith in the thing that you love to do most.

Secondly, follow the peace of God.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; My perfect peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.

Jesus left us with His peace to face any situation that comes our way. This means that no matter what decision we make, if we have a peace about it, then chances are it is a God decision. Have you ever had that feeling deep inside you that says, “This doesn’t feel right. Something is a little off.”? That’s probably the Holy Spirit telling you to back up and regroup and think through what you are about to do. On the other hand, have you ever felt like the decision you are about to make is the right thing to do even though you feel unfortable about the idea or everything seems to be going wrong? That’s the peace of God directing you on the inside. By no means am I telling you to go by feelings or basing your decision on circumstances around you. But, if you are truly a child of God, then you will know it deep within you the direction God is leading. He gives us his peace, even in the midst of fear or uncertainty, when He is showing us the way.

So, step out in faith and follow the peace of God in every area of your life today. As you do, you’ll be on your way to fulfilling the destiny God has planned for your life!