Stepping Through the Rapids
When God calls you to do something new, different or unique; it’s euphoric and amazing! It’s also a bit scary because it’s filled with unknown challenges and time lines. It’s like being called across a fast moving river KNOWING that something incredible lies just beyond the other side!
The first step is epic! You’ve made up your mind, you believe in what you’re about to do and so you take a deep breath, stick out your chest and dramatically lift up your foot as you take the BIG STEP into the water. Then, the second foot follows with equal intensity and emphasis. Now, YOU’RE ALL IN.
And, eventually, you will have a clear vision of what’s on the other side and be ready, ultimately, to take another BIG step out of the river and into the promised next chapter of your life and ministry. You’ll plant the flag. Build the altar. Dance upon the firm foundation you now feel underneath your feet.
But, what about the times that you find yourself in the MIDDLE of the RIVER? WHAT ABOUT THE RAPIDS? It’s here where you can’t see your feet and you can barely stand against a current coming against you (and your decision). There’s NO big talk about what you’re about to do OR where God has brought your from. It’s SURVIVAL MODE! Things are slower, more cautious and far less exciting. Making a mistake in the middle can cost you SO MUCH both now and in the future.
You’ve got to get it right!
I’m standing in the rapids right now. Yep, I took a HUGE crazy step right into the middle of a whirlpool and for months went beneath the surface — only popping up to gasp for air! Not gonna lie, it’s been hard but still exciting. Netta and I knew it was right. And, I’m SO CONFIDENT that something truly epic and amazing awaits my family and me on the other side of this transition.
But, right now… there’s not much happening except maintaining a prayerful stance against the raging current and boulder size distractions. I’m feeling my way along the bottom ince-by-inch. Progress is hard to see and I must celebrate not slipping as much as I celebrate taking a step. I heard Him say STEP out and I won’t quit until I finish what He trusts me to do!
Obedience trumps doubts!
I’m not going to lie… it’s really hard… times in the rapids can quickly become fear, anxiety, discouragement or extreme loneliness. But, this part of the journey is necessary and ultimately produces the perseverance and faith needed for the things awaiting me. I’m going to emerge from the rapids and RUN… 2024 will be EPIC!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.
When you cross rivers, you will not drown. Isaiah 43:2
So, I will keep taking small steps when I can — keeping my eyes on Jesus and my heart filled with His calling and purpose. I won’t be swept away by doubts or delays, I’ll step on the other side at just the right time as Jesus reaches out His nail-scared hand and pulls me to the NEXT opportunity!
standing against the current,
Chilly
**thank you to ALL who pray for me, believe in me and trust me. You inspire me to keep going and I know God will cross many of our paths again, in new ways, sometime soon!
