As we look ahead to the fall, there's a lot to be excited about. Kids are heading back to school. Routines are returning. Churches are launching new series, groups, classes and outreach efforts. It's a season of anticipation. It can also feel overwhelming. (These feelings can be true simultaneously. And they don't cancel each other out.)
Are you feeling pressure to be at the top of your game? Maybe to be more strategic, energetic or efficient? To maximize more opportunities? To be more respected or liked? To juggle all the things at work, home and in life? And the list of these questions could go on and on.
Friend, I want to encourage you ... We don't have to fret about being at the top of our game to walk with the Lord. We don't have to do more, juggle all the things or try to implement the perfect plan.
Instead, we can trust Him. We know that God is always with us and at work. And in our weakness, He is strong!
In 2 Corinthians 12:9, we read:
Each time He said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me."
Let's try a simpler approach this next season, to: Take the next faithful step.
As we walk with the Spirit, He faithfully leads us one step at a time. Our role isn't to have everything figured out or to push harder. It's not about how capable we are. Instead, our role is to stay surrendered, listen for His leading, and faithfully take the next step He places in front of us.
That might mean spending more time in prayer as the day begins. It might mean encouraging a friend or coworker, having an important conversation, asking for help, or finishing one task that's been lingering on your list. Or it might be taking a nap, closing your laptop for the evening, or enjoying a Sabbath day of play and rest.
It also means walking humbly with others. Ministry and the Christian life were never meant to be walked alone. So invite others to partner with you. Share openly. Ask for their ideas. Lean into the gifts God has given them, and trust Him to accomplish more through a unified team than you could on your own.
As you faithfully take the next step, watch what God is doing - and what only He can do. His purposes will prevail.
Lord, Help us walk humbly and closely with you. To love our families and friends. To see our work and serving in ministry as a privilege. And help us to take the next faithful step forward each day, for your glory. And we trust you with the journey and the impact. Amen.