Staying Where You Are
In 2014, I made a move. It was a big move. After living in Minnesota for 50 years I became of aware rather randomly of two jobs in Maryland. I was offered both and after accepting the one I thought would be the best fit for me, I moved. I had spent all my years in Minnesota. That was where I grew up, went to college, got married and raised my children. This is where my extended family primarily lived. However, things has changed in my life and I felt that God was saying, “Janelle, you just can’t stay here any longer. I have plans for you.” So relying on my favorite verse, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11, I made the move. It was not without stress. Having never done anything like this in my life, I had to I walked with God into unknown territory. And God was true to His word and promise. Had I stayed where I was I would have missed out on so much that was planned for me.A move in following God can be stepping out in trust in many different areas. It does not necessarily mean one has to move half way across the country, but it could mean that or even moving to the other side of the world! Or it could be so many other things such as: Taking on serving at church Volunteering Learning something new Starting a gathering in your community Making a job change Any other option God places in your path God is constantly nudging us, no, He is constantly telling us to trust Him in all things: Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Psalm 56:3-4 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by sight. He created us for a reason and is preparing us for good purposes: Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. If there is a plan and purpose intended for us by God, He’s most certainly will guide us. Each of us is uniquely created and God’s plan is therefore unique to each of us. What you are called to do will be different than what God guides others to do. Take a few moments to ponder each of these questions and maybe even jot down your answers:- What gifts has God given me?- What has been weighing on me? – What nudges have I been feeling and not acting on? Next steps: Talk to God. Prayerfully consider taking action. Trust God’s plan. Most importantly trust in God’s plan. You may not see today how amazing the outcome will be but God does! JW