I have begun doing research and study for my Christmas series. I am actually following The Advent Conspiracy idea and preparing my messages around their four ideas. You can read about them more fully here. But while going through my files as I worked on Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) I ran across a statement I filed away years ago. It says a lot to me and perhaps to you as well:
“There is no ideal place to serve God except the place He set you down.”
I started thinking about that phrase and how many times I have used/heard the reason excuse for unhappiness as being “I am in the wrong place” or “If only I was there” (wherever “there” is). One of the things that Jesus said to Saul (later Paul) on the road to Damascus was “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” Goads were sharp sticks used to prod oxen, and if the oxen kicked in resistance, the drivers would keep them in line by using the goads more severely. I may be missing the boat here but don’t you think that many are missing the blessings of God by failing to submit to God’s plan and accept their place in life? We grumble about our job. We grumble about our finances. We grumble about our church. We grumble about where we live. Now…I am not advocating not making an attempt to look forward or to better ourselves but often times we do so much complaining that we miss out on living full lives surrounded by God’s richness.
Is this you? Have you been complaining about your circumstances so much that you have missed out on what God has in store for you? Serve Him where He placed you. Any thoughts?
Great post Bill!
I have often found my self asking God what I’m supposed to be doing. Looking for that BIG God calling when it may be as simple as being Christ to the people that he has put into my life right here where I am now.
Good point Bill! We seem to forget that big or small God has called us where we are. Thanks for the kind words and the comment.
At this particular point in my life, I feel like God has put me right where He wants me and by the way, right where I want to be. I feel like he’s placed me in the school because He knows my heart for kids & hopefully I can make a difference in somebody’s life, whether it be a student or staff person. I feel like we found our house because it is right around all my children and we all need each other. I have complained & grumbled in the past about my circumstances, but God has shown me if I just be patient and wait on Him, He always knows the way for me and will reveal that to me in His time. Waiting & being patient, not easy things to do, but they have been very good learning lessons for me.
Have a great Monday Bill!
Great thoughts Jan! Sounds like God has definitely put you where you belong! Thanks, as always, for commenting.