My new career would require I more seriously weigh my commitments and how I use my time. I had to say no to a few things I really wanted to do and became quite skilled at saying, “Thank you for your consideration! No, I will not be able to do that at this time.” I had not worked full-time for many years and this proved to be an incredible adjustment for me. You full-time career moms & friends are my HEROS and you must share your secrets!
Although the adjustment was necessary in the beginning, I eventually allowed myself to become selfish with my time. I was beginning to say no without prayerfully even considering my answer. I am a firm believer that our service to the Lord is to be done with excellence. We shouldn’t offer God our leftovers but bring our best (all the while knowing our best efforts are useless without God’s strength!). Since I felt my limited time would hinder me from bringing God’s best I made no effort at all.
Until my pastor’s sermon brought me to a “come to Jesus” realization!
He spoke about Peter’s denial of Christ at the time of His arrest. A while after Peter’s personal failure he went fishing. When returning to the shore after an unproductive night, Jesus appeared to the men and offered them breakfast. He met Peter’s basic need then had a serious conversation. Three times after asking, “Do you love me?” He told Peter to feed His sheep.
It was as if Jesus were speaking directly to my heart. “Gloria, if you love me, you will feed My sheep. You have been served breakfast. Your break is over! Now it’s time to get busy and get back to work teaching.”
Please, pray for me. This fall I am leading a Bible study called Becoming a Woman of Excellence by Cynthia Heald. I am pouring myself into this act of love and trust God’s strength in my weakness.
How about you? What sheep are you feeding? Are you on a break? Is it time to get back in the game?
Image courtesy of “Father Feeding Child In Kitchen” by marin at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Copyright©2016, Gloria Stucky