Comtemplation of Future Commitments

I watched my daughter graduate from Seminary: adorned with black gown, hooded in purple, “Masters Degree” certificate in hand.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to complete a Bachelor’s Degree.
Oh, how I long to achieve and be rewarded!

I read a brochure describing interesting photography courses: Seeing in Black and White, Creative Photographic Expression, Fusion of Vision and Technique.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to impact viewers through my photography.
Oh, how I long to create and send a message!

I surfed the internet for nearby Bible Colleges: one and half years already completed, car at the ready, my mind like a sponge.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to have a deeper relationship with God.
Oh, how I long to understand God!

In contemplating what to do with my time,
I asked the Lord if I should sign up for photography courses or Bible College courses.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. There was full attendance at that week’s ladies Bible study that I lead. What an encouragement!
“OK, Lord, you want me to focus on YOU.”

I asked the Lord which Bible College I should attend, thinking that’s a good way to focus on Him.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. The nearest college offered just the right mix of courses AND I even knew one of the instructors. How convenient it would be!
“OK, Lord, you want me to check out this school.”

I talked to that instructor, visited the college and read all the material.
I asked the Lord if he wanted me to commit all this time for the next several years to finish my degree.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. He reminded me of the passion He’d already given me: growing closer to Him through the revelation of His Word in both a personal context and a small group context. Sharing my experience of God with others is important!
“OK, Lord, you want me to know You better by seeing You work in others’ lives.”

I asked the Lord if He wanted me to take more training in order to be more effective as a leader.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. He reminded me of Precept Ministries and their quality, in-depth studies. Yes, like Bible College, but no exams or twenty page essays!
“OK, Lord, I will pursue this avenue. Thank you for loving me so much that You would use me to facilitate the spiritual growth of others!”

“PS. Lord, can I still take one of the photography courses?!”
Stay tuned!

PPS. I signed up for the Precept Ministries Leadership course, but it was later canceled.
I asked the Lord, “What now? Send me a sign.”
The Lord sent me a sign. A message – “You will be busy doing my will and you don’t need to know about it now!”