"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps"
Proverbs 16:9
Since I have been back home, there is this pressure to go onto the next step in my life. My hope was to get a job in some type of ministry or a nonprofit working with teenagers. By this time, you should know my dream is to be a motivational speaker in schools and on a Friday night share the Gospel at a local church.
Let me be honest, I wondered how will I get there if I don't try. If I don't take things into my own hands and reach out to speakers that are already practicing what I yearn to do. I reached out to local churches, radio stations, and auditioned for a talent show in order to prove to others that I am worth the investment. I had a friend design a business card, so that I could hand out and remind people what I am capable of. I made a website to showcase my talents and skills.
Not all of it was a waste, a radio station interviewed me and shared my story about the World Race and spoken word. I was invited to share at bible studies, small groups and church.
Most of my attempts have fallen flat without any hope to reach my dreams. I mean, I want to share the gifts God has given to me with others. But I have realized that when I sought out opportunities to share these good gifts that the Lord has blessed me with, I started to admire myself. Pride crept into these beautiful gifts the Lord has given to me.
With all my attempts to make it into this industry of motivational speaking, I have failed! I easily forgot who gave me this gift to speak and who will get me where I am called to be!
I am reminded of the story of Joseph. He was given a dream about being a ruler. He didn't know how he would get there and I am sure he didn't expect it to happen the way it did. His brothers planned to kill him but instead sold his as a slave. When he arrived in Egypt he was favored by Pharaoh and became his attendant. Later, Pharaoh's wife wanted to be with Joseph and when he denied her, she lied which sent him to prison for years. While in prison Joseph found favor with the prison warden and was put in charge of all those in prison. It was there the Lord gave him the gift to interpret dreams. He used it and gave glory to God. He asked the cupbearer to remember him and mention him to Pharaoh, but he forgot until two years later when Pharaoh was in need of an interpretation. Soon after, he was made in charge of Egypt.
Through it all, Joseph remained faithful to the Lord and always giving God glory. His journey was windy and unexpected. The Lord used each stage of his life to prepare him for his ultimate plan for Joseph. Take a look at other biblical figures, Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, Jesus, Peter, Paul, etc. They all went through periods of preparation before stepping into God's ultimate plan. But I believe through every stage of our life from birth to death, the Lord directs it all and it is His plan to guide our steps. Our lives are to glorify Him at whatever stage we are at in life.
All that to say, I am not moving to New York. I went for an interview last week at a marketing firm called, Mana Groups. The firm raises money for charities. After my preliminary interview, I was asked to come back the next day for my second interview and after that I was pulled aside by the assistant manager and was offered the job. They are planning to branch out to Washington, DC in a few weeks. So, I took the job believing and trusting the Lord that this is my next step to prepare me for things to come.
"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps"
Proverbs 16:9
Side Note: I do encourage you to take a look at my website and provide feedback.
http://rubylopezcs.wix.com/rubylopez
