The Future Challenge – Mid-Life
Our futures are full of uncertainty, that is certain. The sense of great opportunity and probably our best years ever are ahead! Kids are grown. We’re feeling pretty healthy. Finances are what they are. We want to make a difference. We sense God is leading us to something. The Lord had a passion for more laborers for His harvest. If missions from the US to the world was one enterprise, it would be a fortune 100 company. Every possible disciple is needed to contribute to kingdom advance among the nations.
In all prior centuries, there has not been a population with people like you that are healthy and well educated. There is a compelling sense that it is more compelling to make a difference instead of a bundle.
Keep your eyes on Jesus and the things of earth grow dim (Heb 12:2Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. MSG). If our heart is right, he will direct our paths to make a kingdom difference (Prov 3:6n everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success. TLB). On the other hand, if our heart is not right, we are mostly on our own we get blown and tossed around on the wave of every idea and possibility we see resulting in confusion and defeat. (James 1:6But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.)
A right heart is one that says I am willing Lord, with no conditions. “Your will, not mine”, as was the consistent example of Jesus while here on earth.
In thinking about the future, and taking next steps, the wise counsel is to take the next logical step toward where you believe God is leading. Bounce your thoughts and ideas off a pastor, spiritual mentor or confidant. If God gives you inner peace, keep moving. If you do not sense his peace, take a step back and take another logical step. The key is to take steps. Often, we do not take steps because we cannot see far enough down the road. That is walking by sight. We are called to walk…take our next steps…by faith. Even if we can only see far enough for one step, we should take it. God is pleased by our faith and honors it.
The “unknown” of the future is always a challenge. Or…we can see it as an opportunity to grow in our faith and confidence in our Lord. The Lord does the heavy lifting (Matt 11:28-30Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden ... for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.) as we pray and work through options. The seeming “obstacle” of the unknown can actually provide opportunity for God to develop our character and our trust in him, so we have something of true depth to offer those who need to know Jesus!