As the planet spins a complete revolution on its perfect path (orbit) every day, each of our lives also follows a path oftentimes without the components of a perfect revolution. There are bumps, turns and dead ends.
We all have different expectations at each stage of life. As we continue on our individual paths, as followers of Jesus Christ, only He knows the correct path for each of us. It is He who made the path. Jesus said, ”I AM the way, the truth and the life.” John 14:6
After experiencing several careers on my 38-year business journey, I have learned that we Americans, men most often, identify our worth in what it is that we do to provide for our families. The first question following an introduction is generally, “What do you do?”. So, what happens when the journey is interrupted and suddenly the question of what we “do” is not so easily answered? The path has taken an abrupt turn and we find ourselves in a place that is not clearly marked, riddled with obstacles (read: unemployed or underemployed). If we identify our worth in what we “do,” then does our identity become worthless? We suddenly find ourselves in unfamiliar surroundings and wonder “what DO I do?”
Here’s the good news – I have learned that there can be peace in knowing that my Heavenly Father has purposefully laid out my path and plotted my journey. Each step of the journey is for my benefit and eventually HIS Glory. Don’t get me wrong – that “knowing” doesn’t make the long dry spells between each life change any more palatable. Currently, I find myself once again seeking, searching, asking and not understanding why at this stage of my life there are so many unanswered questions. (Notwithstanding, the pressure this process puts on my wonderful wife, Debbie.)
Through the days, weeks and months of seeking the next opportunity – the next beginning – I have had moments when the God who created the heavens and earth stepped in to reassure me that the great I AM is still aware of me and has everything under control. I may know my destination, but the map is not of my making. I have my eyes on the destination, but He has His eyes on the map – the whole picture of my entire journey!
Early one morning, two weeks ago, as I walked to the front door to let our dogs out, the Holy Spirit spoke to me – (“still small voice” (KJV), “there was the sound of a gentle whisper” (AMP), “soft whispering of a voice”, (Good News Bible). He said, “your world isn’t falling apart; it’s falling into place.” That was the first time in a number of months that the Holy Spirit had spoken in response to my asking, seeking and knocking daily, often hourly. Of course, that is exactly what I needed to hear, when I needed it most. While my unanswered questions and concerns about the unknown had me questioning my very worth, the Great I AM showed that He can still calm any storm with HIS words.
As we attempt to abandon our own desires and fully submit to God’s plan, we are lead down a narrow path, perfectly designed for each of us. “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
Today, I don’t know exactly what is in my future, but once again my LORD has assured me of HIS faithfulness. Every detail will be revealed in HIS perfect timing.
In a recent message at Christ Fellowship Church, Pastor Jon presented “Be still and listen”. Once again Almighty God used His servant to deliver HIS powerful word that calms every storm. Through much pain and long suffering, Pastor Jon and Kristine Morgan were able to speak an anointed word of God and deliver a life changing message for all to receive. Please listen to the entire message. Kristine offered a very personal account of how our Heavenly Father walks with us through every trial.
Hopefully this brief note will encourage you to seek our Lord through your trial, your battle, your momentary setback. He is forever faithful!!!
~ Joe Phelps
Christ Fellowship member