Go west…

As far as Columbia, that is. It looks as though our next chapter in life is taking back where we started to Ole’ Cola-Town. After a silent retreat with just his tent and jug of water, CJ heard God speak to him and tell him to go to school. For those of you who may not know, CJ has a GI bill as well as a booster to go for school (which makes it a little shy of $50k). Although that is not why he joined the NAVY, it certainly is a plus. After 6 years of being out, he no longer doubts that is what he needs to do. He feels led to go into nursing (he was a corpsman) and capitalize on some of his skills already in place. Camping ministry has always been CJ’s first passion and wants some theology training as well. The only school we know of which happens to have a nursing degree coupled with Bible major (which is not the same as a “Religion” major) is Columbia International University (CIU). And wouldn’t you know it also has a minor in Outdoor Leadership which hones in on camping techniques specifically for the purpose of bringing one closer to God. Hmmmmmm. It looks like the flashing arrows are all pointing in that direction. As much as I HATE to move an hour and a half away from this town I’ve grown to love so (Btw, this is the longest CJ and I have lived in one place at one time since we’ve been married), God has spoken to my heart and, as gently as He does, stepped on my toes to remind me of some things.

Reminder #1: This is NOT my life. As much as we would all like it to be (I have Bon Jovi’s song “It’s My Life” reverberating in my head), we gave up our rights- as if we had them to begin with- when we submitted ourselves to Jesus. It doesn’t matter what we want or what our desires are. Our created purpose is to worship God. Anything outside of that is superfluous. Practically, that is done through being obedient with the gifts and talents He blesses us with. In this season of my life, it’s being a strong supportive wife and a protective mom who is clear minded, consistent, and competent in training her children in these short formative years. In a couple of years, I may be obedient through a different direction: maybe going to work full time or… The point is my life belongs completely to Jesus.

Reminder #2: Obedience is key. Everyone wants to be great and leave a legacy, but not all can set their pride aside to obey God’s leading. Abraham and Moses were considered great not because of their high integrity, great moral standing, or even their ability to do what was right (I mean, are you kidding me, have you done a character study on these two?). Alas, it was their simple obedience which God used to lead them into becoming our forefathers of faith. How much would our lives change if we instantly said, “Yes, Lord?”

Reminder #3: Faith is the evidence of things unseen. My husband has prided himself on being a provider. It is a noble and godly goal; but when it interferes with the life mission God gives, it becomes idolatry. Satan comes as an angel of light. He can certainly twist what began as good with good results and good intentions into his evil scheme with disastrous results- he is the master at it. So providing good things for your family is great; but when that provision keeps our men from doing what he was truly called to do, we should beware that our earthly longings aren’t leading others to salvation. We know God will provide and bless us as we press on toward what and where He has led us. So many needs have already been met. I’m excited to see how God works everything out to glorify Himself!

Stay tuned!