31 days of praise…day 1

I’m kind of ashamed of how long it has taken me to start this challenge, but as my fellow procrastinators would say…better late than never.

Each day during the month of March, I’m going to share with you something that I am thankful for.  I’d love it if you would also share what you are thankful for.

The first thing that I am so excited to share with you is about baby steps.  Doesn’t that sound strange?  You would think so from a worldly perspective, but I’m so thankful for a Father who doesn’t throw this huge dream of being a writer on me all at once, when I’m not nearly as ready as I need to be.  There are so many things I need to work on before I will be at a place that my life can take that much more added stress.  Even though it’s not God’s timing right now for me to reach that pie-in-the-sky goal, He is faithful, even in the little things.  He will never leave me and He would not put this desire in my heart if He didn’t want me to share my gift with others.  His amazing grace is the BEST story ever told!  I am so glad that He allows me to add a little bit of my story to His.  My heart is overflowing tonight (even though I feel like I’ve been to the moon and back today), because I am confident that God will provide me opportunities to share His love every day.  I just have to open my heart and ask Him to give me His eyes so that I can see who is hurting and needs Jesus.

Do you know what your God-ordained gift is?  Not just something that the world complements you on, but that thing way down deep in your heart that is begging to get out.  You might have already realized what God wants you to do to further His kingdom, but if you haven’t, please pray and ask God for the wisdom to know the difference between your pride and His will.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”  James 1:5  (NIV)

The most terrifying of all responsibilities that we have as Christians is obedience.  Sometimes, I don’t want to put my words out there for all the world to criticize.  But, that’s what my Father asks me to do and He has already gone ahead on the path and He’s calling my name to follow.  Oh, how much of a fool I would be if I didn’t follow Him.  So, I take baby steps at first, to get my balance.  Eventually, I’ll be able to run the race marked out for me.  Either way, God is always with me and is please as long as I’m seeking His face.