Before I finished the first sentence into my silent prayer, God said one word:
STAGNANT
I visibly flinched.
Our small group leader encouraged us to pause in prayer and ask God where we were at in our relationship with Him, as we began a new year. My answer was: murky…stinky…water. Stagnant.
Like a pond that wind never reaches. Something that could be refreshing and supporting life, had become offensive.
And Lord…that’s me?
But He was right. I love that God loves me enough to tell me the obvious truth when I need the push. He had been waiting for me to ask.
Our Lord, the Gentleman, waits patiently until we will hear Him.
I was standing at the edge of the Jordan River, looking at the Promised Land and smiling fondly at the thought of what He had in store.
But not taking the step of faith that gets the water out of the way.
For 10 years, writing took a pause, while Jesus worked on me. Now, He was saying, it was time to move forward in faith. He had already pointed out to me in Scripture, that Joshua too, knew he needed to take his own step of faith, emboldened by confidence in the Lord, not himself. With purpose and courage that comes from hearing the Lord’s direction, Joshua would lead his people to victory by directing the Priests to take that first step that parted the Jordan River (see Joshua 3: 7-17)
I do believe God “can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20 NIV). He’s proven Himself to me so, many, times, but I had stood at the edge hesitating, long enough.
As I pondered at this stagnancy in my life, I asked, Jesus, where do I start? And only as He does, He led me to this. Writing for women who, like me, are craving more and don’t really know what it is.
“I told you a few months ago,” I heard the inaudible whisper, “I am calling you to write and to teach”.
Immediate hesitation followed – this is so, not my easy place – English, grammar, comprehension, were always the weakest link in my education history. But isn’t that where He calls us?
To where we need faith to take the steps?
Where He can rescue others to safety and lead others to victory, through our weaknesses?
When we surrender to His will, we can be strong in Him, and He be Glorified? (See 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10)
Another flinch.
In my weakest areas, Lord, You can be Glorified?
From my most hidden places, You will cast light for the steps of others?
This writing, is me walking ahead, taking tentative, yet purposeful steps of faith. My focus is on finding completion in the only One who satisfies; the author and finisher of my faith (see Revelations 3:20, Hebrews 12:2). I don’t know what’s ahead; I just want to be obedient with what He has given me, and I don’t want to be stagnant.
You will find me here pondering… wondering… and in awe of how the Lord speaks in ways unexpected. This is an invitation to join the discovery, trusting our Creator to use the least of these. Want to pull up a chair?
Jane
Where two or more are gathered in My name, there I am with them. Matthew 18:20
Jane , your writing is beautiful , you are such a beautiful wonderful person . I have always been inspired by you and found whether you knew it or not , you quietly pushed me to be a better person and I have loved you for that 🥰
How do I type when my eyes are watery? Love you right back Fonda!
I have known you my whole life and cherish our relationship in a deep and meaningful way. I am overjoyed at the opportunity to get to know you even better and to support you as you journey down this new path.
You are cherished too Kailey and I love that we get to journey together in another way! 💕
Oh Jane I am so proud of you!!!! What a fabulous website and what a great gift you are giving to the world!!! Writing is fabulous and I can’t wait to read more….
All the best
Cindy
Thank you so much Cindy! Such kind words 🤗.