Photo by Jehyun Sung on Unsplash

“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope” Jeremiah 29:11.

I led an unexpected faith study with a friend. It wasn’t exactly how I planned my fall. Instead, I was going to lead a bible study at my parish. While it was a good idea, I had some health struggles that required me to pull back. In discussion with the parish leaders, my wife and I will do it in the New Year. During this season of recovery, a friend reached out to do a one on one faith study. I became excited at this idea. I had the energy and capacity for a smaller study, as this one required less investment of time and effort.  My friend grew deeper in his relationship with God and I was energized to share my faith.

I’m the type of person that usually initiates things. Ever since I was young, people called me a natural leader. When I see an opportunity, I like to take hold of it. In my relationship with God, however, I appreciate the times that God takes initiative. Even though I like to take the lead, sometimes it’s exhausting. Sometimes I plan things and desire to have the energy to carry it out, but in fact, I don’t have it. God taught me something during this season of being sick and recovering. He is the initiator. Anything inspired, anything worthy to be considered good, is initiated by God himself. That was a refreshing and relieving reflection. I don’t need to be in control. In fact, when I let God in control, he does wonders!

There’s other things in my life that I’m allowing God to take initiative. I’m planning when I will study for my financial exams. Originally I wanted to do it this fall, but God wanted me to rest and take care of my health. I’ve accepted it’s not now, but later. Then, our family was supposed to go on a trip down south for Christmas. While we love to travel, it didn’t seem like the best time for us. In fact, things had a way of working out and we will have a staycation! I’ve realized that I don’t have much control over events. God is the initiator. He’s in control. If something happens, God is directing us. If something doesn’t happen, God is protecting us. Maybe there’s something in your life that seems like a struggle to begin. Maybe that’s God’s way of saying it’s not meant to be right now?