This Way: Following God's Direction Series

Part 1: Choose God's Way

In the second message of the This Way series, Pastor Hans Hess taught that the direction of our lives is shaped by the choices we make. God continually speaks and leads His people, but we must decide whether we will follow His way or our own. Isaiah 30:21 reminds us that God is faithful to guide us, but walking in His direction requires obedience, surrender, and trust.

Using the story of Ruth, Pastor Hans showed what it looks like to choose God even in uncertainty. While Orpah turned back, Ruth stayed. Her words to Naomi revealed a heart fully committed not only to Naomi, but to God Himself: “Where you go I will go…your God will be my God.” Ruth chose faithfulness over comfort, and that decision changed the course of her life. Sometimes God’s greatest blessings are found on the other side of difficult but obedient choices.

The message also focused on choosing presence over distraction through the story of Mary and Martha. Martha was consumed with stress and responsibilities, while Mary chose to sit at the feet of Jesus. Jesus called it “what is better.” Pastor Hans reminded us that many people are exhausted because they are busy with everything except what matters most. God’s direction becomes clearer when we slow down and spend time with Him.

Another key point was walking in honor and loyalty. Ruth honored Naomi through her commitment, faithfulness, and determination to stay beside her even in hardship. In a world that often walks away when things get difficult, Ruth’s life reminds us that God blesses those who remain faithful, loyal, and honorable.

The message closed with a challenge to remain determined. Ruth kept walking even without knowing what the future held. God often reveals direction step by step, not all at once. When we choose obedience, faithfulness, and perseverance, God leads us exactly where He wants us to be.

Final Takeaway

Choosing better means choosing God’s way over convenience, His presence over distraction, honor over selfishness, and determination over giving up. When we make those choices, we position ourselves to walk in the direction God has prepared for us.