Billboard in the Sky

Sometimes I ponder on how in the world we are supposed to know who to date and marry.
It cannot be totally based on emotion and neither is it to be based solely on facts-- and how are we to discern what God's will is when we are pulled a million different directions by our feelings and also by facts. I mean is it where the feelings and facts interact and then we get various "fleeces" that we find the will of God?

I always want a sign-- I guess I am like doubting Thomas-- I want to put my hands in the holes and be like-- "Ok, now I'm sure." The will of God is such a thing of both faith and mystery. Steve DeNeff preached a sermon on it a few weeks ago and he talked about it in terms of faith and providence-- providence takes one step (God does something) and then we follow with a step of faith that says "I trust and know You are at work regardless of how I feel or the uncertainty of what lies ahead." For example, there were a few small events that got me to thinking about leading a team to India this coming year-- as I was thinking and praying about it I wanted a sign-- I wanted it to be crystal clear. Instead, I just had this positive feeling about it and finally said "Well, God I am just going to step out in faith and see what You do." Nissa and I both did that and now here we are team leaders-- I get the feeling that I complicate God's will a lot and tear myself into confused shreds with -- "God what do You want me to do?" He has already told us a lot of what we should do-- as we do those things and then seek Him on the uncertain things He does reveal Himself. I desire to be "clear-minded and self controlled so I can pray.." which I am not as I run around in mental circles begging God to give me a billboard in the sky with flashing lights saying "HOPE- _________ is My will. Love, God." God is always in His word and sometimes God is in our thoughts -- feelings -- other people. There is not some magic combination to unlock the will of God which is what it seems I am looking for sometimes.

Wow, that was a lot of thoughts all pouring out at once. Webale (thank you) for listening.

::ordinary day, Extraordinary God::