What's next?
A few weeks ago, after a great church service, I started thinking about what's next. We've been really busy since June and things have finally slowed down over the last few weeks. As I moved into this slower pace, I felt a little lost. It's been a much needed break, one I was desperate for and need to stay in for a little while, yet I haven't quite gotten the hang of rest. And on that Sunday afternoon a few weeks ago, I found myself asking God, what's next? What's my next adventure, ministry, mission? I don't even have an inkling as to what big things He has in store for me next. But as I reflected and began to prayerfully consider my next steps, I felt that He was calling me to continue in this slower pace and to move forward in a few of the things He had already put in my path before I move forward with anything else.
I'll be honest, it wasn't really the answer I wanted to hear. The things that I feel that God wants me to do don't feel that exciting. He opened those doors for me awhile back, but I've felt too distracted and unmotivated to move forward. I've started to realize that He needs me to be obedient in the small things so that He can trust me with bigger things. I feel like I'm being a little vague here and it's hard for me to get my thoughts out without completely spilling all of the personal details of our lives on the internet. :)
More or less, God has given me some opportunities to use my gifts and I am struggling to find the motivation to be obedient. I first typed "small opportunities" but I don't think God sees them as small. They are important. Lots of amazing things come from small beginnings (Zechariah 4:10). I was reminded me this week about the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), and how we shouldn't bury the talents (whether it be monetary or spiritual gifts) that He gives us but use them to multiply His kingdom.
So I'm slowing down this season, working on a writing project and focusing on the spiritual disciplines that have been missing from my life (like solitude and more intentional prayer). I plan to add some margin so that I'm not wasting so much time on my phone. I would love to practice Pilates regularly (I can hear my office buddies laughing now!). I'm also in the process of learning something that will probably take me years (and a few classes) to master. Nevertheless, there's no time like the present. I'll be honest in saying that some doubts have creeped in already. It's not an easy journey to be discerning and obedient. All I can do is move forward and commit these things to God as I go. I want to hear "...Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much...." (Matthew 25:21).
My prayer is that through this slower season, if I am intentional about seeking Him and am obedient in these opportunities, that I will hear His voice louder and more clearly than ever before and there will be no mistaking when He calls me to new things.
So what is He calling you to? What little (or big!) things has God been laying on your heart? I would love to pray for you as you move forward. Feel free to leave a comment or send me a message on FB messenger.