Surrendered In Every Season

“For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NLT)

“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NLT)

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.” (Romans 8:28-30, NLT)

I grew up wanting to be a wealthy interior designer living in New York City. Then I met Jesus, accepted Him as my Savior, and He changed everything. In fact, Jesus has called me to a different kind of interior design—the redesigning of interior spaces that matter most with the beauty of His Words in the Bible.

And so... I have never lived in the “Big Apple” nor made anywhere close to $1 million dollars. But I do witness God changing lives every day. I am eternally wealthy because of this and am grateful that God said no to my desire to spend my life picking out paint and that He gave me a new passion to love on His people instead.

Likewise, you will experience a season where God may answer your petition with a no. Or God could ask you to let go of what you are doing in order to move forward with Him into a new season of influence in your ministry. When this happens, it can feel unsettling, a little confusing, unfair or hard. But according to the Apostle Paul—whose life was full of suffering and setbacks, God really is “working all things together for our good.” Do you believe this today?

I pray you do and remain obedient to God and before those He allows us to serve for a season. Our influence this side of Heaven is ongoing, yet it is also seasonal. Sometimes we will lead others. Other times we follow the lead of another person. Our season in serving in a paid ministry position or on a volunteer ministry team will come to an end.

Be encouraged, for when God says no, it’s time for you to let go and move on with Him to something else. A no from God always makes a way for one of His yeses.

How will you know when it is time to let go within the context of a specific ministry?

• When a non-fleeting, unsettled feeling grows within your heart as you ponder your current experience.
• When you notice a lack of spiritual fruit in your life or ministry.
• When the opportunity to use your spiritual gifts wanes, decreases, or ceases.

If you can relate to any of the markers above, God may be leading you into a new season with Him! Though this realization may make you feel scared or sad, talk with God about your feelings. Pray and seek counsel from godly friends or from your Pastor. Resist the urge to let your emotions or a few bad days be the basis for why you believe God is saying no to you. God will clearly lead you if you take the time to wait and truly listen for His counsel, which will always align with His words in the Bible.

Well, fellow woman called by God, what an honor it has been to meet with you over these past five days! The fact that you persevered and are reading these words means you know you are loved and called to be a woman of influence in the Kingdom of your heavenly Father. As you continue to walk out your calling, expect and embrace the hard days that will come. Determine to keep moving forward until God says to stop!

Holding people and positions with open hands for life is about seasons. From one type of interior design to another, this is my story and it is your story too.

Reflect:

Is God saying no to you or asking you to let go of something in your life or ministry? Are you struggling to let go of this thing, person, or position? If you are hesitant, ask God to help you move forward with Him.

Prayer:

Father God, help me to obey and trust You through all the seasons of my life. Thank You for giving me influence in Your Kingdom. May my life bring You glory. Amen.