Are we sure about this, God?
Did He hear my prayer?
I have spent days praying for a certain area of life. In my mind, I knew how this prayer should be answered. Oh friend, I was certain I knew the doors that would open, and the steps I would take. And yes, I was wrong. Mercy was I wrong. Isn’t that usually how it goes? We pray and ask God to provide, to lead us where He would have us go, then question when the answer wasn’t quite what we had in mind. You see, I asked God to make a way for me to have a consistent income, would allow me to encourage and equip others, and not interfere with my daughter’s schedule. More than anything, I want to be available for my family. That was a non-negotiable. God’s answer checked all the boxes. But, I thought it would be in the way of life purpose coaching clients, direct sales, or as the latest adventure: accountability coach. Again, I was wrong.
Are we sure about this, God?
The past few days have been a flurry of activity. For the first time in over a decade, I will set an alarm. Also, I will be showered and ready by 7:30 a.m. Do you know what working from home looks like? I choose my schedule, shower daily, but at whatever time I choose. Now? I am going to be at a specific place Monday-Friday. When will I workout? Will I get to enjoy my morning coffee and Jesus time like I have? In the evenings will I be grumpy and take it out on my family? And, really, this is how God chose to answer? Also, I don’t even know the expectations of this job. That’s right, I am not altogether sure what I am going to be doing. There have been a plethora of moments I have wondered if I made the right choice. Yes, I have been doubting, questioning, and getting downright angry. Then, I am reminded of my own words, my prayer, and all the checked boxes.
Will it be easy?
I am stepping through the door meant for me. Scripture says the Lord directs our steps. Because I believe the word of God to be true, I have to believe this is what I am meant to do in this season. Will it be easy? No. What a misconception we hold when we think the road will be easy simply because we are being obedient. Will there be frustrating and hard days? I guarantee it. But, any work can bring those things. Writing books can be frustrating. Traveling to speak can be frustrating. And sometimes, life purpose coaching can be frustrating. God has promised us eternity, not easy. Maybe we need to revisit that. We are given glimpses of eternity throughout eternity. Nowhere do I see Jesus saying following Him will be easy. But, He is directing our steps. God is not a liar. He keeps every promise He makes. Therefore, we can trust where He leads us, even if He takes us to places we would not have chosen on our own. Amen? Amen.
Prayer
Father, give us eyes to see the work you are doing. Lead us where you would have us go. Use our gifts and talents in a way that advances the kingdom. We want to know you and make you known, above all else. When answers come in unexpected ways, helps us to respond with gratitude and grace. Forgive us for not trusting you to direct our steps. When we believe someone else’s calling matters more than our own, forgive us. Please forgive us for choosing rivalry over relationship. Draw us closer to you as you lead us to the place you have for us. Amen.
Going further
How do you see God working in your own life? Have you ever prayed for something then become frustrated when the answer wasn’t what you thought it would (or should) be? As you pray this week, ask God to give you wisdom to see the work He is doing in and through you. And when those frustrations rise, choose to worship. As we worship, our minds become more focused on Him and less on ourselves. That is the perspective we need. Also, make sure you have someone in your life who will cheer you on, encourage you, and remind you how God is using you. Love hard and live well, friends.
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