“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Phil. 1:6, NASB
Do you ever long for a more effective Christian life … a deeper, richer, more fruitful Christian experience?
I do. I so much want to lead people to a saving knowledge of Christ … but I struggle to know how.
I’ve prayed about it. I’ve become discouraged. I feel stuck.
Where are the people? I homeschool, I write, I encourage my husband in pastoral ministry. I take care of my children and home while also trying to intentionally spend time with extended family and friends. Honestly, I can only think of two people I know—and sort of interact with—who aren’t Christians.
And what about time? Mornings to evenings are filled with what I described above—not exactly much time left to evangelize like I envision. Goodness, I can’t even make it to the sidewalk once per month for ministry outside the abortion clinic.
HE … will perfect it.
God began this work in me. HE chose me, HE gave me life in Christ, HE prepared good works beforehand for me to accomplish, HE grows me. Instead of fretting about leading numerous people to Christ, I just need to focus on HIM. As I continue praying and seeking to be filled each day with the Holy Spirit, God will guide my steps.
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding, In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Prov. 3:5-6, KJV
God didn’t create me to minister just like _____. He hasn’t called me to evangelize in exactly the same way as _____. He’s chosen me for His purposes in this place at this time. Instead of striving to figure out how I can be an effective Christian like _____, today I’m going to fill up with Jesus. I’m going to sit with Him, listen to Him, be enamored by Him … and follow Him. Will you join me?
It’s not about the work we do … but the work GOD does in us.
photo credit: Shereen M via photopin cc
Emily you are completely right to focus on God and where he has placed you right now. You are in a season of your life where you are where you are, but your desire to reach the lost is not wrong either. God put that desire in your heart and down the road of life you will have opportunities to touch the lost. I love your heart! Just stayed filled up with Jesus. 🙂
Hi Cathy,
Thank you so much for your encouraging words. I can’t tell you how much they mean to me! Thanks also for taking a moment to read my post and leave a comment. Blessings to you in Christ ~
In His Love,
Emily
Thank you Emily!! Your words always touch my heart.
Thanks, dear Wanda ~ to God be the glory! So glad to hear He used these words to touch your heart.
Much love in Christ,
Emily
Thank you, E! It seems I am forever learning that the thing God desires me to do is what He’s put right in front of me–take care of those He’s given me to care for. Many blessings, C
Oh, so nice to hear from you, C … you pop into my mind pretty regularly 🙂 . And you’re more than welcome for this post ~ thanks for reading and commenting. I’m encouraged that the Lord faithfully gives me words to write…
Love you,
Emily
Well said my friend! Thanks for the grace reminder. 🙂 Where are your share buttons?
Thanks, dear Andy. I love that you stopped by and shared. 🙂 As for share buttons, I have fb, twitter, etc. right above the comment section, plus also in the top right corner of every page. Thanks for asking!
Love you,
Emily