“It is not that we are competent in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our competence is from God.”
2 Corinthians 3:5 HCSB
“But He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 HCSB
God doesn’t call the capable. The called are made capable through Him.
How often are we trying to do in our own power what we think we’re capable of? We work to fulfill the needs around us. These tasks may really need completing, but are they the roles the Lord has called us to do?
Years ago, I experienced a time when I was being offered lots of jobs. I went to order a swing set, having studied the catalog closely. I asked so many questions that the owner said I knew more than his employees, and he asked if I’d like a sales job! Another time, I took my son to a gym and play class and they liked my singing, so they invited me to teach the class! I also attended a ladies-only circuit gym in the early mornings and was asked if I’d like to cover that shift.
I turned down all of those offers, because being a stay-at-home mom was most important to my family in that season.
I did somewhat begrudgingly accept an opportunity to teach a weekly preschool-themed art class at a local teacher’s store when the previous teacher moved away. But that meant I couldn’t spend quality time with my son because I was responsible for helping everyone else. I began planning the weekly lessons around the letters of the alphabet, and the store permanently closed by the time we got to the letter F!
We’ve all been given a variety of skills, and the Lord wants us to use them to benefit our communities. But just because we are capable, does not mean we are called to take on every responsibility.
These experiences are fresh in my mind as I’m updating my resume to apply for a writer/editor position that involves children’s Christian education. I can see how my roles and life experiences have added up to this moment: elementary teacher, Christian preschool teacher, collaborative author, and blog and book devotional author.
I feel the Lord calling me to apply. As His servant, I will follow where He leads, knowing that the outcomes are up to Him. And whether or not this job is meant for me, I will continue to pray and listen for His call, knowing that His ways are best.
May we all look to the Lord to guide us in His grace!
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for the abilities You have given each of us. Thank You for all that You have enabled us to do through Your grace. Please help us to know where we can best serve You in every season of our lives. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: Where is the Lord calling you in this season?
Porch Chair Prayers 