With a new school and church year before us, requests for your time and talent may be frequent and intense. How do we handle the bombardment? For me, it means a heart-to-heart with my Father.
I make a date with my prayer closet or take a long morning prayer walk. The most pressing question is simple and straightforward, “What is God calling me to do in this season of life?” So I ask Him, then wait for an answer. I’ve learned along the way not to give lip service to prayer. Pray means pray. Then it’s time to listen.
Sometimes we don’t pray because we fear God won’t answer us. Sometimes we don’t pray because we know He will, and we’re not sure we’ll like the answer. Either way, we have knee work to do.
If God is leading you to say “no,” that might be an answer you hate to give. Here’s some helpful suggestions.
- No, but thanks for thinking of me!
- This is not going to work for me (us) this season.
- I’m going to have to pass this time round.
- I’m so sorry. I would love to do that, but I can’t.
- My margin is not allowing for anything new at this time.
- God and I have been talking. Right now He has me saying yes to …
Every God directed no is a thing of surrender. It is a holy yes to God’s plan for you in this season of your life.
When is it hardest for you to say no?
Is This Your First Time Here?
Welcome! We’re a group that gathers around the theme, “There has to be a better way.” We’re finding it in the 4-word mission statement, “Run hard. Rest well.”
- It’s a journey into the heart of God. It comes our way through an on-going exploration of four biblical rhythms that revive, replenish and restore: Sabbath Keeping, Sleep (and other simple stress-reducers), Stillness—personal retreat, and Solitude—personal retreat.
- It’s an expedition that challenges us at every turn. It convicts us in deep, tender places. It alters our priorities and plans. It’s not for the faint of heart.
- It’s adventure at its best – as we learn to run the race in a power not our own.