These have been profound and awe-filled days the last weeks. In spring, we were praying about our next step, considering we had only committed through the end of summer at 5Rock. The first word came. 5Rock was not our long-term home. "What's next then, Jesus?" So many good times of prayer and peace and excitement for the next step. He very clearly tells us "Go to Bethel." "Okay, anything else? Long term, short term, the next step?" Just, "Go."
We are all smiles at this point. He's made it so clear He wants to lead us into and tell us the next step. Afterall, isn't HE the one who directs our steps? We know we sound crazy and oh, people they question. But I've never felt so confident of something in my entire life.
Craigslist and job worries leave no pressure. Questions and confused looks, and "what do you WANT to do?" sway us no longer. At least in this season He has said, FAITH. Follow what I tell you and I will give you the next step.
It's a crazy season because some of us (let's be honest... Amy) are planners, go-getters, uber motivated, gonna conquer the world depending on what I do but of course with Jesus help. Not so this time. Sheep rely on the Shepherd to show them the way. So we do the same.
While in Wisconsin He took me to 1 Corinthians 1 and 2. You know, the part where it talks about the wisdom of God being foolish to man? We know that feeling well these days. Being jobless, living at my mom's and doing no internet searching or resume enhancement, many respond to us like we're crazy. But we know He said "Go to Bethel" and so we rest in and act on this word and we'll go from there. "The foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans..." (1 Corin. 1:25)
The 2nd chapter gets even better. "But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets... And we have received God's Spirit so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us."
Mmm... what a picture! When you are with the Spirit he will take you deeper into the things of God. Picture the wide open, blue rolling ocean. You're in a boat on the water with the Spirit (he's at the back, driving the boat... at least that's where I think he is). When you say "yes!" to Jesus, the Spirit just plunges that boat right straight down into the water! When you look down, you see the Father sitting on a big, beautiful, gold treasure chest surrounded by gems and coins. Inside the chest lie His mysterious, wonderful, too-awesome-to-imagine plans for you. If you say yes to going deeper He totally is going to reveal those plans to you. Maybe not all at once, then we'd have no surprise and faith left! But I believe if you say yes to giving Him the reigns He's got crazy, awesome plans hidden away that He SO wants to reveal to you, his child. And I believe it brings Him SO much delight to share those with you! Don't you just see his big ol' grin as you say yes and say "okay, Jesus, do whatever with me!"?
Oh, I just can't get enough of that picture. It fills me with excitement and anticipation. I can't help but love this good, good Father!
In Daniel 2, Daniel and his friends prayed (begged!) for God to tell them what King Nebuchadnezzar's dream meant. That night the secret of the the king's dream was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Daniel burst out,
"Praise the name of God forever and ever for he has ALL wisdom and power!
HE controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings.
HE gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars.
HE reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what hides in darkness, though he is surrounded by light."
Did you catch it? "HE reveals DEEP and mysterious things..." He has these awesome plans, and holds ALL wisdom. HE is the one who gives knowledge to scholars.
So this weekend we head to Bethel. If we are slow to respond or be in touch for the next bit, we're probably sitting still and clearing distractions so we can better hear the voice of our Father as we seek Him for what's next. We are full of anticipation and excitement and ABSOLUTE peace as we move forward. We are so excited to continue to share this journey with you!
(Pictures are from our recent drive to and time in Wisconsin. So beautiful, aren't they?)
(Pictures are from our recent drive to and time in Wisconsin. So beautiful, aren't they?)
