The past three months have been difficult yet invigorating. Turmoil on the outside yet peace on the inside. In crisis yet a great time of faith building. The past three months have seemed like one huge oxymoron. Many times, God works mightily in the middle of a situation that seems like an oxymoron.
When I knew God was leading me to resign the pastorate at Riverside, I knew I had to listen and do it. So, I did it. I am so glad that God gave Susan (my wife) a peace about the decision as well. We knew we were in for a ride on the faith building train. We also knew God was going to use this time to grow our kids faith as well.
God is so faithful. A couple of weeks after leaving Riverside, a friend emailed me that he had a dream and the Holy Spirit wanted him to share it with me. He told me to follow the Spirit and wait on the Lord. Don't do what looks right or is the easiest, just follow the Spirit. Wow, I needed that. I had an opportunity arise for a decent job recently. But, I knew God was not leading me to take the job so I removed my name from consideration. I thank God for the clear direction.
I have used the past couple of months as a sabbatical. I have been studying, reading, praying, and writing. God has used this time to grow my faith and re-energize me for my next assignment. I don't have any idea where my next assignment is but I know that God already has it prepared for me. I was thanking Him this morning for providing it for me. I know it is coming. I just have to wait on Him. He will provide.
About a month ago, I was a little down. I was reading in the book of Joshua and God gave me a rhema (a word specifically for me and my situation). He told me, "Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9b)." Man... I needed that. God wants me to be strong and courageous. He wants me to have no fear about this time our family is going through. He's got this!!!
As the days and weeks continue to go by with no immanent ministry position on the horizon and no upcoming income that I know of; I know God is the one taking care of us. He knows I am available to do whatever He wants. The pressure is off me. He will provide for me and my family as I listen to His Spirit and follow His leading.
As I was praying last week, I began wondering if I was going to miss God in this. I was afraid I might not hear Him when He speaks to me. God spoke to me clearly in my Spirit and said, "You are not going to miss it." That's exciting!
God is faithful. Therefore, I trust. I encourage you to trust Him today in whatever circumstance you find yourself!
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