I’m still in a state of shock from the Virginia Tech tragedy. It’s still weighing on my heart. I can’t help it. I have three kids in college and I can’t imagine getting that phone call. I’m sure you can’t either. I know things should have calmed down by now, but here’s why they haven’t.
Many moons ago, prior to beginning our family, Ross and I worked with the youth at our church. When we quickly developed our own little youth group of three kids in three years, we took a step down. Since, I have paid close attention to the youth activities knowing I would one day return to this passion.
You see, I am feeling called to jump in again since this tragedy, but I’m not acting. My plate is full and I’m afraid I’d be stressed to add this to the platter. However, the Lord keeps tugging at my heart.
Our youth need us. They need adults to take an interest in their lives whether they admit it or not. I know this and want to help, but am skeptical because when I sign up for something, I go hog-wild. I give 100% plus.
Midlife has been a time to recognize that it’s not good to be overwhelmed and over-scheduled. I’ve learned the hard way. So, I ask…what do you do when you feel like you’re ignoring God’s call?
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Dotsie, I put it all on the table and ask God to remove what is not in that plan, and to show me what IS. Many times he surprises me and I put down things that seem important, only to discover that they stood in the way of the desire of my heart.
I’m actually at that crossroads myself, “His ways are higher than our ways,” we just need to ask! Sometimes what we think we should be doing isn’t what we “need” to be doing!
Great post, Dotsie!
Thanks girls. It’s funny, I’ve had friends ask me this same question, but when you’re the one going through it, it’s good to have the words spoken to you through firends. Thanks for being those friends.
Connie, now I’m trying to decide if it’s what I NEED to do. Still paying on it. I believe there’s a season for everything and perhaps this season of working with youth needs to wait two years until other responsibilities end.
I’m off to an author’s in residence meeting… so I only have a moment…. but one thought I have is something I have learned from experience.
Take time to make the right decision. So many times I thought I knew what to do, was really sure about it and was just about to act on it when I talked with another person, usually my husband and realized that I was not really making the right choice.
I find my husband grounds me… especially from making an emotional decision. I can get caught up in things and really think it’s God, only to find out I was “missing it”.
If I take the time, make the decision over a few weeks, I will make the right one. I realize there are times we have decide things quickly, but changing the course and direction of life…. I believe God will give us enough time to search Him out and know what to do.
“Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14
If at the end of my time of praying, talking and seeking God I still believe it’s right I will do it.
I’ve made a lot of mistakes from jumping before looking where I’m leaping…. I’m not suggesting that’s what you’re doing, I’m just sharing from all my “opps”.
Have to run….
I like Suz’s idea of putting it all out–for me I need it on paper or post-its. What could you say no to so that you can say yes to this? It may not be easy–maybe that’s what Jesus was talking about when he said his way can be narrow.
In the Quaker tradition, the will of God is discerned in community by means of a “clearness committee.” Rather than just asking one friend or a spouse, gather a handful of wise people, and have them listen to you, and listen to God with you and for you.
I’ve never done this formally, but I often check in with a few people who know me well when making this kind of decision.
I believe our children are loaed to us as a blessing, a stewardship for which we will one day have to give an account.
In ministering to youth, you should careful that it is not at the expense of your children and the time and care you should give to them as service to God.
Our God does nothing halfway or slipshod. We laready know that, don’t we?
Persevere in prayer Dotsie. Life each day fully, explore all that your youth ministry will entail and could entail, against the backdrop of your family.
Perseve in prayer. In seeking counsel, talk also to your children. Listen to their words and read between the lines.
Persevere in prayer - not out of frustration. God’s intent is never to frustrate us but to draw us closer to Himself.
Persevere in prayer joyfully, as a resting place, a spa for the soul, a massage for the mind.
God will reveal His will in His time. Persevere in prayer.
Lisa, Kerri and Cheryl. Thanks for all your thoughts and suggestions. What fun to be able to count on my virtual buddies to help me see the light. I’ve been pondering and praying about this and here’s what I’ve come up with.
I am going to offer to help with behind the scenes planning and offer to attend some of the events. That way I’m not jumping in with both feet and getting in over my head. I’ll see how it goes, then take it from there. I’m starting by working at a festival this weekend for three hours.
I’m content with this answer. Thanks ladies.