What a difference God's plan makes when we let Him do what only He can do in our lives.
In 9 months He has moved me from one church to another. He has opened doors to new ministries where I can serve, and He has taught me that healthy boundaries are a gift.. The boundaries I've put into place protect dedicated time for prayer, Bible reading, my family, my church family, and the ministries God has entrusted to me.
My friend Kandiss described it perfectly: "There's no more noise."
That may be the best description I've heard. If you've experienced it, or are beginning to, you'll understand.
Several friends have gently reminded me to be careful of "new church burnout" and not take on too much. That's wise counsel, and something I wasn't nearly as aware of when I returned to church in 2023. But something changed.
It's not wrong to prioritize time with Jesus, and time with family. Once I completely embraced God's priorities... He opened doors. As I learned to guard my time, God opened doors to volunteer with Jacob's Journey, and serve in new ways at church.
Last Sunday was my first opportunity to serve at the King's Heirs Luncheon...
I enjoyed attending 6 of them since coming to Calvary, but really felt the Lord calling me to serve, do dishes, clean up, and help in any way I can as well. It's such a wonderful time each month. Then, standing with the others as we finished dishes, I was part of the brainstorming for next month's menu. There was such a blessing being part of that conversation as we bounced ideas off each other and together came up with an easy, delicious menu.
When I'm not at church, my days are spent reading my Bible, praying and taking care of this home, my husband and making my adult children feel that even though they're out there on their own, forging their lives, Mama is always there to chat, pray, encourage and tell them that Jesus loves them. They are my first ministry, my most important ministry.
This new rhythm is peaceful, even when we encounter a bump because as I've said numerous times on this blog...
God is always with me.
Releasing the feeling that I always need to be productive has been life-changing. It has changed my attitude and reminded me that God never asked me to fill every moment with activity. He asked me to abide in Him. Healthy boundaries aren't selfish. They protect the time I give to the Lord and help me serve others from a place of peace instead of exhaustion. God wants our hearts before He wants our busyness, and when we keep our eyes fixed on Him, He faithfully strengthens us for whatever lies ahead.
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