Remember the game Mother May I — the children’s game where the children have to ask “mother may I take three steps forward” (or whatever movement they want to make) to the “mother” player, with the goal being to be the first person to reach where “mother” is standing.

I was reminded of this today, when the Bible opened to the first book of Samuel.  I read several stories about David going into battle.  Each time, he asked the Lord whether he should go.

David inquired of the LORD, “Shall I pursue these raiders? Can I overtake them?” The LORD answered him: Go in pursuit, for you will certainly overtake them and bring about a rescue.

1 Samuel 30:8

I find that I frequently ask the Lord for help or things I want, things I think will help me on the path I have chosen.  But I don’t often ask him for advice as to what I should do.  Unlike the game, God does not require us to ask permission before we make a move.  We can always take 3 giant leaps forward, if we want.  But, I wonder what the result would be if we more frequently asked Him whether we should, before we made a move.  Is it any wonder that David accomplished so much on the battlefield, when he asked God before pursuing battle, if he should?  Perhaps, like in the children’s game, we would reach Father more easily if we asked for his permission and guidance?

Lord,

Thank you for everything you do for me, and your constant love and guidance.  Help me find the path that you have chosen.  I want to know your way, not my own. I need your guidance.  Help me to include you in my decision process to include you in every part of my life.  Help me to listen and hear what you say.  Help me to have the courage to follow.  That is what I want.  Prevent the many distractions from the world from clouding my vision or my heart’s desire.