Find What You’ve Been Searching For

Most wisdom says, “Take time and think things through. Be thoughtful about your decision. Take it slow.” Yet, there is one time when you should throw caution to the wind: it’s when you know God is calling you to do something.

The other night my husband and I, sat on our bed. Somewhat unintentionally we entered a difficult situation. The more we talked, the more we knew God was calling us to radically change some things. The more we thought things through the more we realized it would require a complete change of approach. The more we pressed into the details the more we realized that to sit around doing the same thing would be sin.

Grr…I am not sure about all of this God.

“Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” (Ja. 4:17)

Jesus didn’t call His disciples casually; He calls them immediately.

“One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers—Simon, also called Peter, and Andrew—throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.

A little farther up the shore he saw two other brothers, James and John, sitting in a boat with their father, Zebedee, repairing their nets. And he called them to come, too.  They immediately followed him, leaving the boat and their father behind.” (Mt. 5:18-22 NLT)

Following Jesus doesn’t mean we stay where we are and cling to stuff. It doesn’t mean we count all the reasons why — we can’t. As difficult as it feels, it means that we drop everything and go where He is going. And, trust me, I know this isn’t always easy.

Where is Jesus calling you to come or go?

To a more unforced rhythm of life? To greater patience? To a job change? To help in a service project you have been putting off? To listen more to your husband? To walk down a new road and find new friends? To reach out to a neighbor? To call that family member? To meet with Jesus more in the morning? To forgive. To let go of your worry about a child?

Frankly, I am going to speak a bit loudly to you today to say. . .

“Follow Him. Do not hold back. If you believe by faith it is Him, act immediately. It will be the best decision of your life. You are a “follower” of Christ, after all. So follow. Sure, there is a time for counselors. Indeed, reach out to them as God calls you to. But, beware of using people as a crutch to stay where you are — when you know God what wants you to do.”

And, friend? I know this may not feel easy, but, may I assure you? God is good. It may take time for you to see it, but you will look back and understand. It may feel like you are losing everything. But, God is good.  It may feel like you are leaving everything behind. But, God is good. Always.

Radical obedience yields radical results. It often is the breakthrough we’ve been searching for: Greater purpose, passion, and peace that kills apathy, boredom, and complacency. This is good. Abundant life is not out of reach.

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