The Unfolding Roadmap: Trusting God's Promptings, Even When You Can't See the Path

We’ve all stood at the foot of a mountain, gazing up at a path obscured by mist, wondering if we truly have what it takes to ascend. Sometimes, the call feels illogical, even unsettling. But what if that’s precisely where God desires us to be? What if the very discomfort signals a divine invitation?

Our brother Ammon, at the Waters of Sebus, faced a similar challenge. He was commanded to preach a message he knew would be met with opposition, a message that demanded a boldness he might not have felt within himself. Yet, he obeyed. And Samuel the Lamanite, scaling the walls of Jerusalem, knew his words would provoke anger, but he persevered, driven by a conviction that transcended fear. They understood, on some level, that the Lord’s timing isn't always our own, and that the greatest movements are often born from moments of uncertainty.

Recently, I listened to a beautiful conversation on Rachel Clare's 'She Rises' podcast with Josie Barrow, an event manager for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who coordinates temple open houses and dedications worldwide. Her story is a testament to the power of trusting God's promptings, even when they don’t make sense. Josie’s path hasn’t been predictable—from returning to school to earning a master’s degree to a career change that required a leap of faith for her entire family—it’s been a journey of unexpected opportunities and divine guidance.

Her experience resonated deeply because it speaks to a truth we all grapple with: the tension between receiving a prompting and understanding its purpose. It’s easy to rationalize, to plan, to demand clarity before action. But sometimes, the Lord asks us to move forward with faith, trusting that understanding will come in the unfolding. As she said, “We don't have to understand every step before we take it.”

This principle applies powerfully to our efforts to gather Israel. Think of the digital stripling warriors, connecting with those seeking truth across continents through the internet. Consider the tireless work of our Missionary Fund, supporting those who share the message of restoration with unwavering devotion. The map of churches isn't merely a visual aid; it's a representation of a global movement, a network of individuals and communities drawn together by a shared yearning for Zion.

The work of gathering isn’t always glamorous. It’s often quiet, incremental, requiring a persistent humility and willingness to step outside of our comfort zones. It might be sharing a post on social media, inviting a neighbor to a JustServe project, or simply offering a listening ear to someone wrestling with their own spiritual journey. Each act, no matter how small, contributes to the charity flywheel, amplifying our reach and impact.

As we strive to be builders, not destroyers, let us draw strength from the examples of those who have gone before—Ammon, Samuel, Josie—and commit to acting on the promptings we receive, trusting that the Lord will illuminate the path as we move forward. Let us be like Outback Jack, steadfast in our purpose, seeking out those who are ready to build, offering them a hand and a message of hope.

Claim your church, leave your painted rocks, and let’s continue to build this gathering place together. The Stone cut without hands is being revealed, and we are called to be part of its unfolding.