Have you ever stood at a crossroads in your life, that pivotal point where one path splits and a choice between two beckons? Perhaps it’s a shift in family dynamics, a new calling, a career change, or even navigating health challenges that demand a personalized approach. In these moments, our hearts often whisper, sometimes even cry out, “Oh, LORD! I need a blessing.”
Recently, as I pondered my own next stage, weighing the potential joys and challenges that lie ahead in my continued work as a senior advocate at a Medicare-approved health plan, the LORD drew my attention to a powerful, yet often overlooked, moment in scripture: the story of Caleb and Achsah, his daughter, in the first chapter of the Book of Judges.
The story involves Caleb, Joshua’s right-hand man, an aging man of unwavering faith and courage, who had promised his daughter Achsah in marriage to whomever could conquer the strongly held Canaanite city of Debir. Othniel rose to the challenge and won her hand (Judges 1: 12-15).
Now, here’s where the story takes a very interesting turn, bringing our focus right to Achsah. It’s as if we’re standing there with her at her own important crossroads, watching as she takes a significant step forward. When she came to her father, she asked for a blessing – and not just any blessing, but a really practical one: ‘You’ve given me land in the South,’ she said, ‘but could you also give me some springs of water?’ (v. 15). And Caleb, being the loving and wise father he was, granted her request, giving her both the upper and lower springs.
My sisters, in Christ, take a closer look, Achsah’s request beautifully illustrates the initial steps we can take when facing a life choice, steps rooted in practicality, commitment, and wisdom, all the while seeking our Heavenly Father’s blessing. Let’s break these down into small, doable steps, just as we navigate our daily lives:
Step 1: Ground Yourself in Practicality
Just as Achsah recognized the aridness of the Negev and the vital need for water, our first step involves a clear-eyed assessment of our current reality and the practical implications of the choices before us.
* What are the tangible aspects of this decision? Consider the resources involved – time, energy, finances, support systems.
* What are the potential practical challenges and benefits? Be honest with yourself about the pros and cons. What might make this new path easier or more difficult in your daily life?
* In my own recent reflections, I had to be practical about my physical energy. While my heart was willing to embrace increasing and new opportunities, my body reminded me of its limitations as I neared my 75th year. Acknowledging this practicality wasn’t a sign of weakness, but of wisdom.
Step 2: Embrace the Commitment
Through Achsah’s thoughtful and practical approach, we see the importance of the long-term commitment she was willing to embrace. This mirrors the broader truth that making a significant life choice requires each of us to invest ourselves fully, determined to see it through, even when challenges inevitably arise.
* What level of commitment does this choice require? Are you prepared to dedicate the necessary time and effort?
* What are your motivations? Are they rooted in a genuine calling or a fleeting desire? True commitment stems from a deep-seated purpose.
* For me, committing to advocating for senior’s health care and alternative medicine requires acknowledging that there will be days when my physical strength wanes. My commitment lies in finding sustainable ways to contribute in a meaningful way by leveraging my cognitive and emotional resilience.
Step 3: Seek Wisdom and Discernment
Achsah sought her father’s blessing, recognizing his wisdom and authority. As daughters of our Heavenly Father, we too should seek His guidance and discernment.
* Pray for wisdom: Ask God to grant you clarity and understanding as you weigh your options. James 1:5 reminds us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
* Seek godly counsel: Talk to trusted mentors, pastors, or wise friends who can offer a biblical perspective and sound advice.
* Listen for God’s still, small voice: Be attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit in your heart. Keep the Word of God before you.
Step 4: Ask for God’s Blessing – The Land of Springs
Achsah didn’t just ask for land; she specifically asked for the land with springs of water – a source of life, nourishment, and sustenance. When we seek God’s blessing on our choices, we’re not just asking for His approval, but for His provision, His guidance, and His life-giving presence to flow through our journey.
* Present your choices to God in prayer: Be specific about your hopes, your fears, and your need for His guidance and blessing.
* Trust in His provision: Just as Caleb provided for Achsah, our Heavenly Father promises to provide for those who seek Him and align their lives with His will.
* Look for the “springs of water” – the sources of life and strength He provides along the way. This might be unexpected support, moments of clarity, or a deep sense of peace.
My dear sisters, stepping into a new season of life can feel daunting, but it’s also filled with potential and purpose. By grounding ourselves in practicality, embracing commitment, seeking wisdom, and most importantly, asking for our Heavenly Father’s blessing – the land of springs – we can move forward with confidence and hope, knowing that He walks alongside us, providing everything we need for the journey ahead.
What life choice are you facing today? Take a moment to bring it before the Lord. Ask for His blessing, and trust that He will guide you to the land of springs, of refreshment, and fullness of life.
Living Life's Way 