Application

For sometime now, probably going on seven years, I have contemplated a seminary degree.  I am finally ready to take the challenge.  I won't go into all that has motivated me to consider such a move, but suffice it to say that I have felt the call to utilize the spiritual gifts I have been blessed with in concert with the practical experience I have gained in the corporate world in a more direct and, hopefully, full time service to our Lord.

The application is complete except for a couple of inputs required from my wife and pastor.  Wife is home, pastor is on vacation.  So, it will be just a bit before I can turn it in.

The feeling, though, that a weight has been lifted off my shoulders is undeniable.  So, is the fear.  However, whatever fear there is, is tempered by the complete peace I feel with this decision.  I have received may encouragements and through prayer and fasting, I believe I am moving in the right direction.

That's all for now, I'll let you know how the application process turns out.  That is step one.  Step two is paying for it.  That will probably be the acid test for God's will.  I'm confidently expecting great things...We'll see!

God-Sized Things

I have recently been made acutely aware that living by faith in circumstances beyond your control is one thing.  Stepping out in faith is another.  It seems that the Lord gives us a preparation time to learn of His grace and provision in the midst of those events we do not choose.  For me, it has been the loss of a teaching position, the sever illness suffered by one of my children and the complete helplessness I feel as a business developer.  In each of these events, He has proven Himself faithful to provide and care for me and my family.  He has allowed me to experience joy and continue in ministry even though the storms raged around me.

Those were times of preparation.  Now God calls to step out in faith, to do bigger things in His name.  Really, He calls to do the kind of things only He can do.  He asks that I follow in servanthood.  Wow.

I have experienced every kind of emotion as I have contemplated His direction.  And, ultimately, through prayer and fasting, have come to experience a great peace that He has and will continue to care for me and my family.  That peace pervades the fear of the unknown in a unique and indescribable way.  Will I respond to the call?  Yes, I will...