There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. (Proverbs 16:25)

These are challenging times. Our economy is on shaky ground. All of the efforts of government to stimulate it may or may not work. People are losing jobs and concerned about their future. In the midst of all this chaos and uncertainty it is easy to become self absorbed.

It is easy, especially during times of crisis and high anxiety, to make quick decisions that seem right and seem logical but may in fact take you to a destination you don’t want to arrive at. Sometimes taking shortcuts to get a job by putting things on a resume that are not true or exaggerating your skills in an interview may seem like the way to get hired. But in reality it may be the quickest way to kill your opportunity.

Henry Blackaby writes: “Things are not always what they seem. Proverbs warns that we can be deceived into believing we are going down the right path and yet be heading toward death, the opposite direction from God’s will. People do not naturally seek God or pursue righteousness_(Rom. 3:10–18). Only as the Spirit awakens our hearts to the Person of Christ are we able to desire God’s will. If we make decisions apart from the guidance of the Spirit of God, we will be like a ship trying to sail without a compass. We will do what makes the most sense, based on our own wisdom. But what looks attractive may actually lead to sin, ultimately destroying what is precious to us, for our most profound human thinking is mere foolishness to God_(1 Cor. 1:18–20). Only God knows the way that leads to life, and He wants to lead us to walk in it (Matt. 7:13–14).

Don’t assume every opportunity that arises is from God. Satan will disguise himself as an “angel of light,” and his invitations will seem to be in your best interest (2 Cor. 11:14). Yet his way leads only to death (John 8:44). The word of God will be like a light to your path, guiding you in the ways of righteousness_(Ps. 119:105). It can be perilous to follow a path that seems right without first consulting the Holy Spirit for guidance_(John 16:13). Take time to seek the Holy Spirit’s direction when you face decisions. He knows the full ramifications of your choices. The Holy Spirit will assist you to understand truth and to experience abundant life. Trust Him as He leads you.”

You will never be disappointed by following Christ and allowing the Holy Spirit to direct your actions. You can trust God to be at work for good in your life even when circumstances are difficult and challenging. I know because I have lived through the storm and God asked me to do some things that didn’t make sense. Yet I learned that by trusting God and doing things his way led to greater opportunity and God’s work in my life in ways that wouldn’t have occurred without following Him.

Is it easy to always do things in a way that honors God? Of course not. Jesus never promised us an easy life. He did promise to be with us. God will be at work in your life. Trust Him. Don’t give in to the temptation to take short cuts. Follow the direction of God’s Holy Spirit. You will experience God’s care and grace in ways you never imagined.

Perspective. It really can make a difference in your life. Our church had the privilege of being a host site for the “Town Hall For Hope” with Dave Ramsey simulcast. It was a great evening and Dave helped put into perspective the economic turmoil our nation is in right now. He offered hope to all those impacted by our current national economic crisis.

It is important for you to know that Dave is also a very committed Christian who believes that our ultimate security is not found in bank accounts, the stock market or bond funds. As we have also learned recently, those things do not provide 100% security.

In Matthew 6, Jesus cautions against focusing on these things. “Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars.” (Matthew 6:19 The Message) So what do we do, where do we really find hope during troubled times? All your stuff really can disappear overnight, like people’s retirement accounts which have lost as much as half their value. Jobs can be eliminated without warning.

A little latter in his teaching Jesus says “Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.” (Matthew 6:33 The Message)

The Lord says keep your focus on Him. Don’t look around at the chaos and confusion. Spend time with Him each day. Read his word and reflect on it. Talk with Him throughout the day. You can rest in knowing that God holds you in his hand.

As you focus on the Lord Jesus you will find assurance that He is at work in your life. He will take care of your needs. My problem is sometimes confusing what I really need with what I want. I can cast all my anxiety and needs on the Lord with the confidence that Jesus Christ is going to be at work in me and in my life.

Certain hope comes from knowing that Christ is my security; not people, bank accounts, retirement funds, or anything else. Certain hope comes from knowing that in the midst of this turmoil that God is working for good in my life (Romans 8:28).

Keep your focus on Jesus Christ. Saturate your mind with God’s promises. You will find new hope for living each day. You will begin to see life from God’s perspective.

And perspective really does make a difference in your life.