Where Do We Go First?
Day 5
After we identify God’s call and claim on our life, the next question is, “where do we go from here?” Almost no one spends time and money preparing for ministry before clarifying a call. I mean, who goes to seminary or engages in ministerial training for no reason?
When young men or newly married couples face this question, it may be simple. Perhaps you’ve completed college or are still in college, yet understand ministry as the direction for your life. Others however might have been married for a few years, or many years. Some acknowledge God’s call a bit later in life. What does such a man do? How does this affect his wife and family?
God uses a calling to ministry as an impetus to get us moving. A place to train is very important. A ship in dry dock is impossible to guide, but cast it into the open water and it becomes manageable to steer. We are like that; God doesn’t show us the next step until we begin, so dare to begin. The goal, the conclusion may seem very far away, but walk with God through each semester. He will lead the way, and He is faithful to change your direction as you move along.
In our life, my husband wanted to get education the quickest way. No time to waste for him! Well, ten years later he finished undergraduate studies and seminary. Had he known this in the beginning, I wonder if he would have even signed up for that first class! The path would have seemed too long and too impossible. (And our children were in first and third grades when he began his education!)
God rarely shows us too far down the road. Yes, He knows what’s around that next bend, but He graciously leads us one step at a time. We are the ones who want the whole game plan before we begin! When you find yourself impatient about the future, go back to Genesis and review Abraham’s call and journey again. Research his and Sarah’s age. Reflect on their ages and the years and length of their journey! Ask God to give you patience and rest to trust Him one day or one season at a time.
The question is: what do I do now. What’s next? The next thing!
When you need a guide, ask The Guide (Matthew 16:13).
Pray today for grace to live one day at a time and courage to trust your today to His control.
If you are just joining us today, please feel free to read the introduction to this devotional series.
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