What is God calling you to do? Whether it’s this holiday season, next year or this very moment, what is it? I used to think only professional church workers (of which I am not) got ‘calls’ to officially serve God. But, that’s not always the case. We all are called to do something and live for God. It’s all about the ‘but’. To wrap up our Holiday Wellness Plan we are going to discuss how to make this plan uniquely yours-what God is calling YOU to do. To finish our acronym, Y is for Yours.
But. It’s a word most of us use to excuse, avoid, or explain why we cannot do something asked of us. It’s oozing with negative vibes. Then I read the beginning of Luke 5 with fresh eyes the other day. Jesus asks Simon (later renamed Peter by Jesus) to throw his fishing nets in the deeper part of the water. This didn’t make sense to the logical fisherman’s mind:
“Master,” Simon replied, “we worked hard all last night and didn’t catch a thing. But if you say so, I’ll let the nets down again.” Luke 5:5 (NLT) (emphasis mine)
Notice Simon used but as more of a positive. I think he was still a bit doubtful, but he acted in faith anyway. You probably know the rest of the story. Their nets just about burst from the abundance of fish! Simon and his fishing buddies were awestruck. It’s here when
“Jesus replied to Simon, “Don’t be afraid! From now on you’ll be fishing for people!” 11 And as soon as they landed, they left everything and followed Jesus.” ~Luke 5: 10b-11 (NLT)
Following Jesus wasn’t logical. But Jesus met them where they were and called them to follow. I sat there after reading these familiar passages with a fresh perspective. Following Jesus is all about the but.
It’s All About the But
I love how Peter acted in faith even though he wasn’t sure of what would happen. This definitely isn’t always my go-to attitude. Our negative buts in life often point out everything that’s wrong with whatever is being asked of us. It isn’t logical, it’s not the right time, I don’t want to. But what if we flipped those buts to positive?
I have no idea how this is all going to work out Lord, but if you say so, I’ll start with this small step.
I don’t have time or feel like making this meal for a sick friend but if you say so, I’ll make it happen tonight.
I don’t want to exercise, eat less during the holidays, or be more thoughtful in my gifts this year, but if you say so, I’ll do it.
What is God calling you to do today and this Holiday season? Is it to manage your wellness in a healthier way? Is it to connect more intimately with Him and others? Is it to reach out and make new memories by setting aside some not-so-great for you habits?
Whatever it is, only you know this answer. I’ve outlined some suggestions on habits, time management, listening, indulgences, dedication, and appreciation, to hopefully help you think. But ultimately, the choice is yours alone. Only you can choose to enact what God is calling you to do.
Each day is a gift from God. Will we live it according to our own wants and give God our but excuses, or will we shift those buts to acting in faith to what He’s calling us to? The choice is up to each of us.
From my own experience of walking in faith even when I don’t understand, He is there. He goes ahead of me to make my paths straight. I may worry or be anxious, but in those times I seek His help to surrender. I don’t need to be afraid as Jesus reminds Simon and the gang (and us), because whatever He calls me to, He’s already there.
Let’s use our buts positively and begin to see the possibilities of what God has for each of us. Thank you so much for joining me for this #HolidayWellnessPlan series. I have learned so much making my plan and I pray you’ve benefited as well. Now, let’s follow unafraid to what He calls us to today and this Holiday season!
“He’s already there!”
What a sweet reminder when we’re called to do the uncomfortable or the unfamiliar!
Yes, Michele, it does give me great comfort God has planned what He calls me to, knowing He’s right there with me! Thanks for stopping by today!
Jill
I’m sitting in an airport with walking pneumonia, a sprained ankle
Going to visit my grandbabies and this is exactly what I needed.
Impeccable timing!
God Bless!
So happy this was a blessing for you Candy-praying you have a wonderful trip!
I’m facing a “But if You say so” decision and love this encouragement, Jill, that God’s already made a way. Thank you, sweet friend, for sharing your heart. xoxo
It can be so stressful to follow in faith, until we remember He IS already there. Happy sharing this truth was helpful my friend!
Oh Jill! This is so awesome! I’ve never thought about “but” as positive! “But” it is! You are so right about stepping up and seeing the possibilities of what God has for each of us. I love this, sweet friend! Great series!
It’s all about switching our perspective, something I’ve learned and am still learning! Thanks for your kind encouragement Teresa!
Hi Jill,
Thanks so much for this. I just realized i don’t actually have anything new to do this holiday season. I feel challenged! I’ll ask God for something healthy to implement into our holiday plan this year.
Thanks for the inspiration.
I pray He challenges you to be a beacon for others in how to be well this holiday season, Tara!
I love that story–it. Always reminds me that even though I may have tried the same thing a million times (like giving up the silly habit of picking my nails), I know I can have success when Jesus is the one who gives the command…I just need to listen and obey! Thanks for the healthy holiday reminders about asking God what we are called to this season!
You are welcome, Kasey-it is all about listening and obeying Jesus! Thanks for stopping by and here’s to wellness this holiday season and everyday!
I usually think of “but” as negative. BUT I love the positive spin you put on it. An online acquaintance often includes “but God” in her responses. It is a powerful phrase–one that I am working to embrace.
Yes, I’m usually a more negative ‘but’ girl who’s attempting to shift perspectives! Thanks for visiting Kelly, great to hear from you!
But if you say so. Yes, I try to live my life like this, but it is a hard, day by day way. And it couldn’t be better when I follow!
It is difficult, but oh, so worth it to follow Him! Thanks for stopping by Sarah!
Jill, such a creative approach to challenging us toward spiritual wellness and greater committment this holiday season. I always love the way you think!
Thanks Crystal! Yes let’s be creatively well this holiday season!