When the Holy Ghost in us is activated, it’s like having a spiritual GPS.
When I first got a personal GPS for use in my car, I had to learn to trust it. I named it “Rhoda.” On one of my first trips, I put the destination address in it and after it located me, it gave the directions one move at a time. I was taken on what I called the “scenic route.” I drove through residential areas, a commercial area, and some retail areas, before finally arriving at my destination. My destination was not a clearly marked building on the street front, but was tucked behind other buildings. I thought for sure the GPS made a mistake. I passed the building and was told to turn around at the nearest opportunity. I did. I drove past it again going the other direction. This time I was directed to go around the block until I “reached my destination” again. I checked the input to make sure I had the right address. It was correct. I called the place to verify their location. I was told to enter the long driveway to a hidden parking, and the front door was to the right of a small sign. I followed the directions and found I was in the right place. On my next visit, I was able to return there via the freeway for a much shorter trip. Why the GPS did not take me on the shorter route? I do not know.
Sometimes a Holy Ghost GPS works the same way. Following the Holy Ghost takes patience, trust, and obedience. We know the destination we want such as career goal, family relationships, ministry vision, or financial level. We may be taken on a “scenic route” so that we will learn the surrounding areas. By going through various areas, we learn different skills, concepts, ideas, and meet key people on our way before we “reach our destination.” There will be times where we are told to make a U-turn (repent) as soon as possible. We may be directed to go around the block if we passed it. In any case, the Holy Ghost knows the way and it is wise to follow His directions one move at a time. After we reach our destination, we will know how to return there by other routes.
Why the Holy Ghost does not take us on the shortest route? I do not know. I do know, however, it is a learning experience along the way.