Are you a Wazer? You know, the app that gives drivers directions to make sure they’re on the quickest route? When I’m driving, the Waze voice helps me know I’m headed in the right direction. It also controls my anxious and uneasy wanderings. Even in unfamiliar places, I trust my Waze app to get me where I want to go and to save me time in traffic. I confidently move forward so I get closer to my destination.

If only life, like Waze, could tell me exactly where I’m going.

In my life I don't like navigating unfamiliar routes. I had one of those unknownsituations when I accepted a new teaching job. I’m an experienced teacher and know the landmarks of the job. But this job was a little different. Normally, I get to start a new position in the summer so I have time to get to know colleagues, students and routines. For this particular position, I walked into the school in October, feeling unsure of what would come next.

Upon arriving, I encountered the familiar sounds and sights of a school routine. I so wanted to be part of that routine. After chatting for a few moments with the principal, I got a visitor badge and headed down to the classroom. In the room was a class full of students ready for me to teach them. But was I ready for them?

I wondered that day, and several days following: What am I doing here in this unfamiliar place?

Time has passed since that first day, and my anxiousness, unease and questions have decreased. I no longer use a visitor badge. Now I have my own with my name and pictureon it. But there are times, in other areas of my life, when the landmarks aren’t familiar. I wonder if I really care to trudge forward without a familiar path.

Then it hits me. God has my life in his hands. As Ephesians 3:19 says, God cares so much for me that “it can never be fully known.” Even with my wondering and wandering steps, God is working in my life to take care of me.

Do you feel like you’re in unfamiliar territory today? Do you wonder if God is at your side for each step?

If so, pray through these verses with me and know that God cares for you:

Lord, I am not sure of the next step, but help me to trust you. Help me know what to do when the time comes. Help me to believe that you care about each step in my life and take care of me.

Suppose I had wings
like the dawning day
and flew across the ocean.
Even then your powerful arm
would guide and protect me. – Psalm 139:9-10 (CEVD)

Right now, God, I’m so worried. Keep me close to you. Bring me peace and comfort in knowing you are right beside me.

May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit. – Romans 15:13 (GNTD)

So many thoughts and uncertainties run through my mind, Lord. Help me to remain faithful to you and keep my mind focused on you.

Teach me your ways, O LORD;
make them known to me.
Teach me to live according to your truth,
for you are my God, who saves me.
I always trust in you. – Psalm 25:4-5 (GNTD)