Last week, I shared in my post Through His Eyes how God used a group of boy scouts to teach me about seeing others through His eyes – not mine. God had more to show me through that experience at the nature preserve and I will share that with you today.
After arriving at the nature preserve and seeing the scouts camped (overnight camping is not usually permitted there), I walked further down in the trail in hopes of finding a place where I could sit quietly before the Lord. My husband was unable to accompany me and because the place is in a rural setting, he was a bit concerned about my going there alone. After promising him I would not go deep into the woods, I sent him a quick text message to say “not to worry there are plenty of people around”.
Expecting a text reply, I was surprised (and a bit annoyed) to hear my phone ring. It was my husband calling to say he wasn’t feeling well and needed to leave work to pick up some medication. (It was only a minor illness and he quickly recovered). I immediately jumped to the wrong conclusion in thinking that because he called rather than sending a text, he wanted me to drop everything, pick up the medication, and bring it to him.
First the scouts, now this. Why is it that something always interferes with my plans?
Did you get that? My plans. At that moment I was more concerned with my desires that the needs of others.
After assuring me that he did not call because he wanted me to come (I was 45 minutes to an hour away), we ended the call and I continued on my walk. It was then the Holy Spirit spoke to me, Joan, if you want to be in women’s ministry, there will be times when you have to put aside your plans. Sometimes you will have to make adjustments.
Ouch! This was not what I wanted to hear, but it caused me to admit to myself that I can be (or rather) I am selfish. I value my time alone. I like things laid out in a neat and orderly manner and when plans go awry, I don’t like it. However two years ago, God revealed to me that I needed to get out of my comfort zone. At the time, I thought it had to do with my writing, but I now realize that it is writing and more.
The following day at church, our worship leader brought the message because our pastor was in Kenya on a short-term mission trip. Our current sermon series is about generosity and Keith brought out that sin is rooted in selfishness. (Yes, Lord, I am listening.)
I think in America today we most often think of generosity as having to do with money. As Christians, I believe generosity also includes being generous with ourselves and using our time and talents to further Christ’s kingdom. Many times we may have to alter our plans to be obedient to God’s calling.
We still need our quiet time – our time alone with God. If we don’t spend time with him, in prayer and study, we won’t be equipped for His work. However, in my life, I am learning the need of being flexible and allowing the Lord to direct my steps.
The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
This post is linked to: Sister to Sister
