So Long, Normal: Trusting God With Circumstances Outside Our ControlУзорак

Saying “Hello” to an Adventure with God When we say goodbye to normal, we don’t just receive a new life. We receive a new mission. It’s a calling God places on your life. This could be as drastic as a commission overseas to serve in another country or as simple as meeting neighbors in your apartment complex. It’s not so much where you go but the intentionality by which you live each moment with gospel purpose. Living on mission will look different for each person, based on your unique gifting, background, resources, and stage of life. It starts with saying hello to a new mission. This new adventure with God will require you to reallocate some of your time and reshape your schedule a bit. Start with baby steps, making them consistently in God’s direction. God’s mission is a journey rather than a sprint (see Hebrews 12:1–3). The Bible is full of examples of people of faith who have made this journey before us. Their examples of godly faith inspire and encourage our faith for the long haul, as well as motivate us to intentionally, and with wisdom and understanding, lay down anything hindering our progress as we set out on our divine mission. Maybe your heart becomes anxious as you think about your personal mission in this race that is set before us. Fix your eyes on Jesus. He is the one writing this story of redemption—the one strengthening us for all that comes our way. Remember that Jesus has already completed this mission. He knows what’s ahead and he will make sure we have the faith and strength to complete the mission. The beauty of anything God calls us to is that it was never intended to be burdensome (see Matthew 11:28–30). Our co-laborer is the Lord of the universe; if we are on mission, we are partnering with an omnipotent God. How hard could our labor be? We’ll labor in his power, not our own. This is how the believer finds rest, even while serving. You may be reluctant to answer God’s call. Know that God will meet you where you are and give you what you need to do what he has asked of you. The power of the Holy Spirit equips you. When we step into our divine roles within the story of redemption, God will do something remarkable in and through us. As unsure as you may be, he will never draw you into anything for which he won’t also provide every resource. There are endless dark places where the light of the gospel is needed. Go, even in the face of resistance. Shine your light anyway. Show them the love of Christ. And always remember: our job is not to change hearts and minds. Only God can do that. Our job is to go. When we truly believe what the Bible taught regarding life, death, heaven, and hell, sharing Jesus with a dying world is no longer optional. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Simply turn toward God and allow him to lead you one step at a time. You do not want to miss out on this great adventure! Respond How has God gifted you and how might you use those gifts for gospel purposes? How do you feel about being part of what God is doing to turn the world upside down? With whom in your life can you share Jesus and the promise of heaven? Take Action If you haven’t already, take a spiritual gifts inventory (there are several online evaluations available, or ask your pastor for a recommendation). List any questions and reservations you have about being on mission for Jesus. Talk through these with a trusted Christian friend and pray together that God will give you a vision of how he wants to work through you to reach others with the gospel. Prepare your mind, your schedule, and your resources to participate in God’s adventure for your life. Listen to Laura Story’s song “Open Hands”. Prayer Lord, I lay my life before you. My hands are open to let go of any reluctance I have to serve you and to receive whatever you have called me to be and do. Help me to say “hello” to your mission and thank you that you will provide what I need to serve you. I am yours. Please send me. Amen.