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How to be faithful where we are

John and I have some decisions to make about future goals, but we just don't have clarity. This is making my obsessive planner, overanalyzing mind go bonkers. Seasons of uncertainty tend to unsettle me, though I should use them to hunker down make sure that I'm prepared.

How can I fight my hamster instincts and choose to be faithful where I am instead of spinning my wheels of worry?

Choose to not long for the past.
When things seem gray and ambiguous, it's easy to look back and wish for an easier time. However, this is not productive and will only leave us more distracted and discontent with the present. Don't linger there.

Choose to not pine for the (unknown) future.
Scripture tells us to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy (Phil. 4:8). Any future daydreams we have are not true - they are fantasies that we construct based on our hopes. Do not give precious energy to things that aren't real yet.

 Choose to not grow stagnant or become paralyzed in the present.
When we aren't sure of our final destination, it's easy to sit on our hands and just do nothing, or worse - dabble in a million things that don't really get us anywhere. There are other things that you ARE sure of that can always use immediate attention. Don't let "fear of the unknown" cripple you into a daze of wasting time. Use nervous energy and that "antsy" feeling to be productive in neglected areas of your life.

Be diligent in daily disciplines. 
Always be ready. Maybe God is not showing you the next step because He wants to mature or grow you in a specific way first. He won't lead us to things that we are not ready for, so make sure that you are being faithful in the "small things" and using times of uncertainty to really press in. Do the things that you know lead to sanctification. Time in the Word, journaling or praying is time well spent, always!

Look for opportunities where you are.
Again, maybe God has not opened the next door because His mission for you in your current space is not completed yet. Even if you are ready to move on, don't tune out the Holy Spirit's promptings now! Be sure that you are alert and seeking ways to serve Him and make Him known to others in your current circumstances. God does not waste a moment. It might be your last day in a job, relationship, neighborhood or church when He gives you a divine appointment.

Cultivate gratitude for present blessings.
We. are. blessed. people. Instead of pining for what's behind you or what may (or may not!) be in front of you, look to your left and your right. I'm guessing that there are people and opportunities you can be thanking God for while you wait patiently. Bask in His goodness right where you are. A grateful heart is a soft, moldable heart, but a worrisome heart is hard and closed.

I think I needed that more than anyone else did, but I hope that sharing it here will make you think the next time that you are at a crossroads.

Pressing in with you!



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