Written by Vianne Satterfield
Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and do not depend on your own understanding.”
Proverbs 20:24 “The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?”
For several months I have been seeking the Lord to ask for His guidance and direction on my next assignment. I want to be a good steward of all God has given to me — whether it is time, energy, finances, skills, abilities or spiritual gifts. I acknowledge these things are given to me from God and I want to steward it by doing something meaningful and fulfills God’s purpose for my life. I know what that purpose is and I am taking intentional steps to fulfill that destiny. This process has been challenging as I have resisted God’s calling for a number of reasons — it is scary, to be honest. There have been many obstacles to overcome — mentally and learning new skills to assist me. I am sharing my thoughts and feelings as I think other people may have experienced similiar things when seeking the Lord for direction. These are some of my thoughts: “Everything is new and different! I can’t do ___.” “Why am I doing this again?” “I like being comfortable.” “I feel inadequate to do _____.”
I have needed to see myself through the lens of God’s love and grace so that I can accept my calling and fulfill His purpose for my life. I have also needed to focus on the truth of God’s Word and remind myself often of the strength He gives me (Philippians 4:13), and that He has equipped me with everything good for doing His will (Hebrews 13:21). Where God guides, He provides (Isaiah 58:11). As I had courage to talk about fulfilling my purpose, many people confirmed what God showed me. Isn’t that cool?
Has the Lord been nudging you to do or create something, to change direction, or to step outside of your comfort zone? I encourage you to seek wise counsel, fast and pray for wisdom, guidance and discernment. Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone into an unknown territory, trusting God to lead, equip and provide. Know that God’s ways are higher and better than your ways. (Isaiah 55:9) If it feels “too big” for you to do or that you don’t know how to do it — great! It’s good ground to put your complete trust in Him to guide you as you step into new territory to fulfill His plans and purpose for you. Remember to keep your eyes upon Him and His Word as He will illuminate your path and give you discernment for the next step. (Psalm 119:105) Take up courage as you listen and step forward into the next assignment by activating faith and confident trust in God who delights in fullfilling your purpose and destiny. (Joshua 1:9)
Be careful what you pray for, as God will expect you to take up courage and walk out the things He shows you! But, thankfully God gives us courage to step out in faith! When God gives you direction, trust Him and go for it!
I would love to hear how you have trusted God as you walk into new territory. Please share in the comments.
Thank you for this as I am seeking God for guidance in my life about my home and children. It been a week. Awesome post.
Denise, I am praying for you to receive clarity, wisdom and guidance as you seek to make the best decisions about your home and children. Blessings to you!