Made For This -- Jumping Into Place

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And, the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil. 4: 6-7

Please read pages 165 through 168 in our book, Made For This.

I haven't even fully read today's lesson. It's Thursday evening. I've just finished talking through the week's lessons with our small group of ladies here in St. Pete. We shared our hearts concerning heartache and suffering, gifting and talents, and the places we live. I opened to Day 25 and immediately thought of a question,

Where are you?

We're talking about our places, so I believe this is a valid and important question. Where are you right now and what are you doing in those spaces?

God asked Adam and Eve that question very early in Genesis. I've always found it interesting, because you know God knew where they were. I believe He asked the question, because Adam and Eve needed to really think about where they were.

What was even more important than where they were was what they were doing there.

They were hiding!

They were ashamed!

They were not participating in the life God had planned for them in their place.

What about you? We've looked at abilities and gifting. We've talked about our suffering and studied God's ability to use all of those negative instances for good in the places where will live and operate. But, none of that will make a difference if we don't accept where we are and acknowledge that God is there with us.

We have to break free of the shame, disappointment, and grief to fully live in our places.... to make a difference in ourselves and in our places.

I'm opening my book now to study right along with you. As we wrap up this week's study, let's respond fully on pages 169 and 170. Let's boldly pray for God's direction in our hearts and in our places.

God, You made us. You know us. And, you've placed us right where we are. You chose this time and place for our stories to play out. Give us the courage to be all in. If we've assumed a hiding position, draw us out. We want to know You and we want to make You known.

PS -- I can't talk about gifts/talents without thinking of the sermon from Christine Caine. It's so powerful. If you need something to listen to over the weekend, I strongly recommend this.