Sometimes in our lives, an event occurs that remains with us for the rest of our days, an event that teaches us a lesson we can’t forget. Recently, I was reminded of such a day, one in which I’d learned a profound truth that has remained with me. I believe that truth applies as much to this day as it did to that day.
Find out when your state prays.
My daughter, Breanne, and I were driving to a nearby city to pick up a water slide for my young grandson’s birthday. My daughter drove, and I sat in the passenger seat gazing out the window and enjoying the ride. We came upon a stretch of road on which I noticed a large sign that read: Caution, Road Work Ahead. I didn’t say anything; I was sure she saw the sign, as she is a very focused driver. She was driving at about 60 miles per hour.
We went another mile or so, and I saw another sign: Road Work Ahead. We kept driving — and at the same speed, I might add. A little farther down the road, I saw yet another sign, and this one said: Flagman Ahead. Still, we drove on without decreasing our speed. The final sign I saw read: Prepare to Stop.
I glanced over at my daughter, who seemed oblivious. I don’t know why I didn’t say anything. I just looked at her, wondering what she was thinking. Within moments, as we went around the next curve, we came upon a flagman. Breanne quickly braked and said, “Well, that’s nice, no warning at all!” Shocked, I exclaimed: “Are you kidding? There were several signs for the past few miles letting us know this was ahead!” She replied: “I didn’t see them; I had my mind on something else.”
Immediately, the Lord spoke to my heart: “Many will NOT see the signs.”
The Scripture says: We do not see our signs; there is no longer any prophet; nor is there any among us who knows how long (Psalm 74:9 NKJV.)
I came across that passage as I was studying signs in the Bible. I was surprised at how many times throughout the Scriptures God used signs to guide or warn His people. God doesn’t change — He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Therefore, I believe He still uses signs to speak to His people, to guide them and to warn of what lies ahead.
A sign in the Bible may be defined as, among other things, a banner, a remembrance, a miraculous sign, a warning, a token, or a proof of something. The word sign comes from a root word that means “to give consent or to agree.” It’s up to us to watch for and pay attention to the signs and then to come into alignment with them. But as God spoke to me that day, many will probably not see the signs.
Today there are signs everywhere that declare the “season” we are in. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that our mind be stayed upon God. We cannot be distracted by all the things the Enemy is trying to put before our eyes. We cannot give our focus to the news or social media. We must have a mind that will perceive the signs God is giving His people for what lies ahead. It is vital that we keep our focus on God, His word, and His voice. We cannot afford to miss the signs! His word will keep us on the right path; His voice will lead us in the way we should go. His peace will surround us, as the Bible promises, when our mind is stayed upon Him (see Isaiah 26:3).
If we choose to acknowledge God in all we do, He will keep us on the right path. He will also warn us of roadblocks or hindrances that may be in our path ahead: Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5–6).
It is the word of the living God that will light our path! His word dispels darkness. Therefore, we must stay in the word of God daily, remembering, that we are to be the light that shines in this darkness, for Christ dwells in us! How else can we reach those trapped in darkness and draw them to the light of God?
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105).
Watch for the signs. They are there! God is speaking; listen closely for His voice. Watch for your signs — they may be different from mine, but they will be there. The more we heed His signs, the more numerous the signs will be. I liken it to one of our drives to Florida. When we are driving in Tennessee, the signs that depict Florida are nonexistent. As we drive into Georgia, the signs for Florida are few and far between. But the closer we get to our destination, the greater the number of Florida signs we see, until they become constant. That is often how it is with God. We may not see a great number of signs in the beginning of our journey, but as we get closer and closer to our destination, we will see more and more signs. They indicate that we are arriving!
His signs are great, and they are declaring His coming glory across the earth. Be alert, and pay close attention to the signs.
How great are His signs, and how mighty His wonders! His Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom, and His dominion is from generation to generation (Daniel 4:3 NKJV).
Have you begun noticing any signs in your own life? Share below!
Kim Potter is a writer and the founder of A New Thing Ministries, which sends a daily teaching to thousands of people all around the world. Her articles have appeared on The Elijah List, in Charisma Magazine, and on Spirit Fuel and iBelieve.com. Kim’s message is one of hope. She speaks to the hearts of those who have grown discouraged or disappointed by the circumstances of life, to impart hope. Her daily inspirational writings are available at www.anewthingministries.com. Photo Credit: KathyKafka/Getty Images.