They may seem quite insignificant at times. In fact, most things become so routine and familiar that we tend to ignore signs that we see every day. However, signs can be very important. To miss a sign indicating the speed limit might result in a hefty fine. To not see a house number might result in one going to a wrong address. To miss a “bridge washed out” sign might result in a tragic accident. God uses signs in various ways to let people know His plan. The first evidence of this is Genesis 1:14 (ESV) Genesis 1:14 (ESV).
“And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years”
In Exodus 3, Moses had been away from the courts of Pharoah for almost 40 years. He was shepherding his father-in-law’s sheep on the backside of the dessert. It was in the wilderness when He noticed something usual, as sign from the Lord. Exodus 3:3-4 (ESV)
“And Moses said, “I will turn aside to see this great sight (or sign), why the bush is not burned.” 4 When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”
Perhaps the sign that we think of the most, especially during this time of year is found in Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)
“Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel”
In Matthew 24, Jesus’ disciples asked Him for the “signs” of His second coming; Matthew 24:3 (ESV)
“As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”
Jesus then tells His disciples the parable of the Fig tree; Matthew 24:32-33 (ESV)
“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. 33 So also, when you see all these things, you know that he is near, at the very gates.”
So, signs are anything but insignificant. They can define who you are, they can declare a new direction or the beginning of a new season. They can also announce an event in God’s timeline. Perhaps the greatest encouragement of signs is that God desires to be very much involved in our lives. For several months, I have seen 11:11 hundreds of times when I look at a clock. In doing research in numerology, I’ve discovered that 11:11 means “transition”, moving from one season to another. Understanding that has brought me great comfort especially as I’ve tried to navigate the last 18 months. We are definitely moving from one season to the next.
My encouragement is to not ignore the signs that God could be placing in front of you. Like Moses, be aware that God desires to speak to and lead you. The signs could be all around you. To miss them could be tragic.