Since leaving LifeChurch.tv at the end of September, I feel like I’ve learned more about myself and God than during any other time in my life. It hasn’t been because I’ve had lots of free time; it has been amazing how the time has remained very “full.” It hasn’t been because I’ve been in the Scriptures more than before…I thank God that my time in the Scriptures has remained consistent for quite some time now. I really cannot point to many reasons “why” but I just know that God is pouring out His grace on my life and I am experiencing Him and resting in Him each day.
Perhaps one “reason” for this is because we have taken this process of church planting very seriously and very slowly (in the world’s eyes). At times I’ve felt the need to “just do it…NOW” and I’ve been asked by lots of people: “so, when are you going to start!?!” I understand that question and, again, I’ve asked myself the same thing time and time again. But, if there is one thing that has helped me see God more clearly it has been listening to His still small voice (1 Kings 19:13) and not ignoring Him when He seems to be saying “wait” or “not yet” or “not there.” I’m telling you…if I had listened to myself and bulldogged this thing…it would be a mere shadow of what God might do. God has introduced us to more people and connected so many dots that all I can do is say “thank you, Lord” for quieting me down and for giving me the ability to wait on You.
I believe God desires for us all to walk with Him…but He has to lead. You cannot follow Christ and run ahead of Him at the same time. It is absurd to believe otherwise yet we easily fall into this trap. I pray that I can remain here. Behind God, yet as close to His heels as possible. I pray that I can remain open handed with what God has given knowing it is His to do with whatever He wishes. It is a sweet place to be…
Great post. Being still to listen for God has to be my biggest struggle…its so against my nature to push through to not loose any forward momentum in life.
I think the first two sentences in the last paragraph really sum things up for me right now. I want so much to only go where God leads…but I have to remember that means I cant be in front and I cant rush His timing.
Brian,
That is good to hear, brother! Sorry I missed you when you were in OKC. I love you guys and am praying for you. Follow on!
Brian, so very excited for you and your family as you pursue what God has put in you guys, I would love to chat with you about all this that is going on, I am in the process of following what God has put into me and my family. I am will be praying for God’s continued grace and direction as you follow this path.
Tiffany…when i wrote those lines it was a revelation for me as well…just processing through this and writing it down has been very eye opening for me.
Brandon…thanks for the prayers!
Josh…drop me an email and let’s chat!