Do you ever find yourself wondering why things are just not working out the way that you want them to? This can be an extremely frustrating thing to happen, especially if you tend to plan things out and arrange them perfectly in your head. I am a detail-oriented person who loves to plan my life out in advance years at a time. I often get frustrated because things do not seem to go the way that I think they should. I often find myself telling the Lord what I want done, and how I want it.
As I have grown older I have realized that when things are not going the way that I have planned that my priorities are likely out of line with the Lord’s. I have also come to realize that by aligning my priorities with His, I find greater peace and happiness. It really helps to realize that He sees the whole picture and He knows what direction I truly need to go. This is not really easy for me, since I am quite stubborn and set on what I want.
Once I do realize that I am headed the wrong direction or praying for the wrong solution, I meditate before I pray. Then I pray that my heart might be opened so that I can understand and know what direction I need to go. I apologize for not doing this earlier. Then I wait. I listen with my heart and my head. An answer does come. At times it does take longer than I would like. Sometimes the only answer I get is that I need to wait or that this is not the right opportunity for my family or me.
I have found that careful scripture study, prayer and self-reflection (for me it is most effective when I write in my journal) helps me to keep my priorities in line with the Lord’s. It is wonderful to know that the Lord is there watching our for me. It is wonderful to know that I can receive guidance and revelation concerning my problems. It is also wonderful to know that I can fix my mistakes through repentance and the Atonement of Christ.
I have had several experiences when it seemed like there was no possible solution, and I had to step forward without definite plans. Every time this has happened, things have turned out better than I could possibly imagine. I know without a doubt that the Lord knows where I am going and how I should get there. I just sometimes forget to consult Him on the direction that I should be going.
Related Articles:
In What Direction Have You Pitched Your Tent?
Your Priorities and Your Family
Do Your Actions Demonstrate Your Priorities?