Many have read this post from my Facebook page already. Here it is again, for those who have not…
Fourteen months ago I made a giant leap of faith. Most people aren’t aware of the challenges and dramatics of what transpired prior to and since the leap, but there have certainly been blocks to overcome. Although I’m not one to be outspoken about or extremely vocal in reference to my faith, I make an honest effort to live my life in a way that represents it well. Whether this is good or bad, I do not know, but I hope most people in my sphere of influence know or have noticed that there is something different about me. Those who know me well are of course well aware that I do, indeed, call myself Christian (follower of Christ). There are stereotypes associated with that title, and I have therefore chosen to use it lightly, but the true meaning of the word remains vivid in my heart – I am a follower of Christ. I believe the Bible is the God-Inspired Word of The Lord written by man under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and it is a guide for all to follow.
Because of such, I know that in seeking first the Kingdom of God I need not fear, for all things (needed) will be added to me, as He tells us in Matthew 6:33. I also know that He tells me to feed the hungry, give drink to those who are thirsty, to heal the sick, clothe the naked, visit the sick and even those in prison because in doing so I do this unto Him – see Matthew 25:34 – 40.
Those who know me well, know that I have always had one goal in life – to go into all the world, taking the Gospel to the Nations, caring for the needy, the sick, and those deemed to be the unwanted. Though obstacles and challenges have put blocks in the roadway, and doubt has at times been allowed to take over as time has progressed and age has come into play, the goal does not falter. Always, no matter what challenges step in for brief moments, the desire returns and a burning passion to show Christ to the needy eventually takes control of me again.
After nearly 9 years working full-time in what I consider one of the most worldly industries (no offense to those working there), struggling emotionally with knowing where my heart longs to be, having major financial break-downs and nearly losing it mentally, I finally gave in and decided to take a major leap of faith – I quit. Now, I must make it known that I did not quit without any place to go – I took up self-employment as a real estate agent with the hopes that it would allow me the freedom to ultimately make my goal come to fruition. It has been, no doubt, a struggle. After 8 months solid of working, I have only made a fraction of the income I was making prior to quitting the full-time job. I am not necessarily any closer to achieving the goal I have in mind, but sometimes I believe the Lord likes to work on us in baby steps. One small step at a time. Though I have not made a lot income-wise, I have gained something that could be a little more valuable – faith.
The interesting thing about what’s happened over the last few months is that though I have barely made a wiggle in the backboard of the financial spectrum, I have had to want for nothing! Everything I have needed has been granted to me. Some bills have been slightly late, but they have been paid. I’ve had food every day, been able to feed my dogs, and even on occasion I’ve been able to visit a coffee shop! “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” – Matthew 6:33.
Of late, I’ve developed a strange, or rather unexpected interest in the prophet Daniel of the Old Testament. A man of power and influence, born of nobility who was taken from his tribesmen and forced to serve the King of Babylon. Babylon – a world power at the time, full of wealth and influence and pagan ritualism. A nation of many gods. But Daniel was an unwavering servant to God, and because of his unwillingness to falter from his loyalty to The Almighty, he became the most trusted advisor to the King. He honored God continuously and testified to the good He did for him and his people. Even when it could have cost his life, he still would not waver. Because of how deeply his story has been impacting me, I am choosing to follow his example and give God the glory for taking care of me… even when doubt comes in, and I feel afraid He proves over and over that He is faithful to care for His children.
No batgirl stories this time. Tune in next week, and I will tell the tale of the next step in my journey of faith as it has been revealed to me.
