Sliding Doors

So, I've been back a week. What have I been doing? I've been helping out a friend's business, doing some Systems Process Mapping, which has been interesting - just seeing if there is anything that can be changed in the business that can make it more profitable and streamlined. It feels great to be doing something that feels like a 'proper job' again.

In other news, God has been leading me with some clear direction. Whilst I was in SA, I felt God say to me that He wanted me to be back in Hastings for a season, where I grew up. Which is fine, but I did advise the omniscient, all-knowing Lord Of The Universe that this would mean me needing somewhere to live. Sure enough, He kindly provided somewhere - and like all His gifts, it is a perfect and pleasing gift of grace. At my grandmothers funeral last Monday - which I led and went fine by the way - family members asked me if I wanted to move into my grandmothers house on a short term, rent free basis, to keep it livable whilst its on the market to sell. The house is a detached four bedroomed bungalow, set within an acre of gardens and woodland. In every way it is perfect for me - it is in the middle of Hastings, the only costs I'd have would be general utility bills, and it has its own woodland for me to have my beloved prayer walks through.

However, there is more. Within ten minutes of arriving at church last Sunday, I was approached by three different leaders individually regarding the student and twenties work there. They all asked me if I wanted to get involved in a key leadership role. So it seems God has made the way for me there.

Of course, a season is indefinable in length, but a season always brings about changes. With a four bedroomed house I'm thinking of lodgers who can give me an income on top of my work. In the 20s group are three guys I've identified as leaders, and in general conversation they've all expressed an interest in moving in with me. I'm almost not surprised anymore at how God does things in His perfect way. Please note, I said 'almost...'

Other opportunities have come my way including a couple of evangelistic ministry things they want me to do, and a couple of teaching slots. All out of the blue, and people approaching me rather than me seeking it.

I'm still very much taking steps of faith. And I have lots of things I'm unsure about. But I think I can only be obedient in what God has already said to me. Why will he speak to me about other things when I've not honoured him in what he has already revealed to me? Psalm 119:105 tells us that God's word is a lamp to our feet - it guides our steps. But a lamp only shows us the ground we stand on, and the ground to step onto. As I step forward, I've got no doubt God will speak to me about the next step. But I need to step first. After all, 2 Corinthians 5:7 reminds us that as Christians, we walk by faith and not by sight. Sometimes choices seem crazy or limited. Doors seem shut or even non-existent. But faith trusts that God will act on our behalf, and I'm realizing more and more than God loves challenging our minds and rationality in how He does things, to show us time and time again that He is God. And He can do things how He wants, when He wants, in the way He wants!

Jesus said in Mark 10:27 that all things are possible for God. I wonder if sometimes, He brings us into a situation where we need to be reminded of this very fact. He's doing that to me right now. And I bet I'm not alone. Is there anything in your life that you know if God doesn't step in, its hopeless? Is he is doing the same thing with you? Is he calling you back to a place where you stop leaning on your own understanding and walking by sight, to the simple trust of a pilgrimage of faith?