Following God can sometimes feel like a balancing act between a spirit of resolve and a spirit of deference. Consider Abraham, to whom God said, “Take now your son, your only son, whom you love, Isaac … and offer him there as a burnt offering” (Genesis 22:2). Abraham was so resolute and devoted to God’s instructions that he built an altar, tied Isaac to it, and actually raised a knife over his son’s body. Can you imagine being this sure of God’s plans, even when they appear awful? At the same time, Abraham remained open—the moment the angel of the Lord told him to stop, He yielded.

As believers, we want to remain focused on the Lord’s call, and yet we must do so with both flexibility and sensitivity to His voice. By listening and responding to His Spirit, we can be sure we’re participating in building His kingdom on earth, no matter what path He chooses for us. At the end of the day, the goal is cling to Him, not to plans themselves.