So far in Psalm 25, we have pondered the trustworthy character of a God who has marked out our path in love, desires to lead and teach us, and promises to faithfully keep us on the path of life despite our wandering hearts. He knows the cares of this world are many, and the decisions we have to make are innumerous — what to eat, what to wear, how to budget our finances, whom to befriend, where to live, what church to attend, what career path to consider, what relationships to pursue, how to spend our free time, what classes to take, what books to read, and so on. So, when it comes to specifics, how will we discern whether he is leading us to the right or the left? How will He answer our prayers for guidance?

Throughout the rest of Psalm 25, one may read of David’s hardships (v. 11-22). His specific requests. David lifts up the elements of his situation to God in prayer, recognizing both outward and inward afflictions. He faces: (1) the physical, violent threat of his enemies, and (2) his own inner turmoil and distress that leaves him feeling lonely, weighed down by sin, and confused about what to do. David asks for God’s grace and forgiveness (v. 7, 18), and guidance (v. 4-5). Can you empathize with these desires in your own life? 

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Before David relays these petitions to God, first notice his posture in prayer — David recognizes that he is a sinner. He does not hide from God or seek to cast blame. With contrite courage, he declares that his sin is not an obstacle to receiving guidance, for God promises to “instruct sinners in the way” (v. 9). Then, David remembers that God will teach those who are “humble” (v. 9), those who walk in the “fear of the Lord” (v. 12). What does this soul-posture look like in our lives and sound like in our thoughts? Well, perhaps it is easier at first to consider what this does NOT look like. 

Psalm 32 instructs us: “Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you“. Surely, there is a way that seems right to man (Proverbs 16:25) — Yet, rebellion from God’s ways will lead to consequences. God promises to discipline those he loves (Hebrews 12:6). Fighting and running from the One who has sovereign reign over your life will prove most painful. In contrast, humble submission to the will of God expresses love and trust in His lordship over your life. It sounds like a “quiet heart” (Isaiah 30:15) and a “peaceful mind” (Isaiah 26:3). 

This humble posture and reverent fear of the Lord will naturally stir one’s heart toward prayer and nurture a desire to seek God’s counsel in His Word. As you study, you will be “transformed by the renewing of your mind … then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing, and perfect will” (Romans 12:12). 

Being immersed in the Word of God will nurture this spiritual sensitivity. So that — when you go to study a situation, you may discern what is the best path to take by knowing the character, commands, and purposes of God in His Word. 

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Now, does this mean that all of your paths will be easy or comfortable? No. Obedience to God will be costly and set one at war with the world. Remember, “no servant is greater than his master”. If the world hates Christ, it will also hate you because you are not of the world (John 15:19-20). Yet, “those who endure will receive the crown of life” (James 1:12). 

Knowing that it will not be easy to follow God, David reminds his own soul in v.10 that “all the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness for those who keep his covenant and testimonies“. In other words, the paths that align with the revealed counsel of His Word and sovereign will for our lives, are marked by these characteristics: “steadfast love” and “faithfulness”. 

Matthew Henry expounds on this in his commentary: “All the paths of the Lord, that is, all his promises and all his providences, are mercy and truth. In all God’s dealings his people may see his mercy displayed, and his word fulfilled, whatever afflictions they are now exercised with”.

In other Psalms, we see how David expresses confidence that even when he “walks through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” and “goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:4,6). He takes heart in singing: “the Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance” (Psalm 16:5-6). And he trusts that “God will work all things for the good of those who love him” (Romans 8:28). 

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Now, with the trustworthy compass of God’s Word in hand and faith in His loving, sovereign will over your life, consider another thought… How will you stand confident in the direction God has led you, when faced with the influence of others? Everyone has their own opinion on how you should be living your life. Just because some “good” opportunity is placed before you, does this mean you should take it? Even those with the best intentions do not know as God knows. Be vigilant of those who may attempt to impose their own will upon you. Ask God to search your heart — what power or pedestal do you willingly give to others who may influence the decisions you make? Apart from God, whose voices are in your head? 

Isaiah 30:21 says: “And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left”. His sheep know His voice and follow (John 10:27). 

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In closing this series, take a moment to reflect upon the paths God has led you through and remember His faithfulness. Perhaps what had seemed painful or confusing in the moment, had turned out to be God’s redirection and protection. Consider His mercy and sustaining grace in a past hardship you faced. Think about how persevering through that hardship had worked resilience, character, and faith in your heart. Remember God’s unexpected provision and tender care of matters great and small. Gain new perspective and wisdom from lessons learned — perhaps that failed relationship had actually held you back more than it encouraged or helped you. Maybe it taught you how to walk away from apathy and disrespect. View that rejection of a past application as reorientation toward a far better position. Take heart that God has never left you to your own devices and was always faithful to hold you fast, even in your wandering. 

As you continue to study Psalm 25, may anxiety and decision paralysis begin to dissipate as you learn to simply “do the next right thing” (Elizabeth Elliott), guided by the sure compass of God’s Word. May it nurture a peace of mind in the loving, sovereign will of God over the path of your feet. And lastly, may it build confidence in your heart as you wait upon Him to act and answer your prayers