Be Brave!

This week, I began a new Bible study. I have the privilege of leading on online Bible study group. During the summer months, I lead the ladies through a book study. It seems this year's pick could possibly push the leader more than the participants. Wow! 

In 2016, Scotty and I prayed a bold prayer together. We prayed that God would do one of two things; remove Scotty's passion to do ministry again or open the door to an opportunity. It was simply too difficult to live the in between any longer. God began answering that prayer within a month. It was absolutely amazing. 

Four years ago this exact week, we began saying goodbye to family and friends. We moved in pieces from North MS to St. Petersburg, FL. It was BY FAR the biggest decision we've ever made as a family. Yet, every part of it felt easy and right. 

Claire was sandwiched in between a multitude of things that didn't fit on the moving truck along with several animals. But, look how excited she is! It was an adventure that ended with a mad dash to Clearwater Beach. Meanwhile, Caleb and I finished up a State Tournament and made our 11 hour trip a week later. 

This brave, bold move was huge! Sometimes, I still can't believe we did it. The adventure didn't stop there.We've been "on the move" in a variety of ways since the day we arrived. Jesus, through the power of His Spirit has directed every step. 

For a few months, though, God has been stirring my heart again. I don't feel a major change being orchestrated. But, I do feel God telling me to be brave again. This time, though, I believe the brave steps will look a little more subtle but feel even more life changing. I believe God is telling me to care more about what He is asking me to be, or say, or do than I care about what others may think about it. Then, I opened my new book and stumbled upon these words immediately, 

Why had I sat on every gift God had given me to make Him known? Because I cared more about being judged by everyone else but Him! Jennie Allen

When Scotty and I faced the immediate shift in all that we'd ever known in 2011, I found this song that became my lifeline. It's my lifeline again. 

So long, status quo! I think I just let go.

I think maybe I don't care anymore about being the one that always does what everyone else believes is the right thing. 

I believe I may be bold enough now to use my voice for the people, the things, and the positions that aren't as popular in the "safe" and "pretty" environments that have always been my home. 

I'm thinking I may actually care about following Jesus fully than doing the dependable thing in the eyes of everyone in my circles. 

I simply have to follow Jesus! Ephesians 2:10 says that He created me on purpose with a purpose. Paul says that He has a plan that He intends for me to walk in, so I intend to obey. 

I'm two days in to a 40 day journey, and this could get really interesting. It's starting to feel like this life isn't as long as I once thought it was. There are assignments to start completing, and I'm all in. This is the tiny part of eternity that was chosen for me to walk on this planet, so I'm ready to do my part. 

Today, I'm thanking God for His patience and His provision. I'm begging Him for an extra dose of guidance and bravery each and every morning. Feel free to check in with me daily. I'll never turn away accountability. 

From one man he created all the nations throughout the whole earth. He decided beforehand when they should rise and fall, and he determined their boundaries. 

Acts 17:26