(Un)Stuck.

Sometimes we can get stuck.  Mentally.  Emotionally.  Spiritually.  
Sometimes it's because we are afraid, and sometimes it's because we are overwhelmed, and sometimes it's because of something else entirely. 

​Regardless of cause, when I personally feel paralyzed, turning to God is the only thing that helps (whether it is through prayer, scripture, fellowship, or another thing the Lord uses in His sometimes-surprising ways to get me moving again).

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Because here's the truth: God wants to help us in times like these.  He wants us to overcome fear, to feel His peace, and to trust and love Him no matter what else is going on.  If we don't find these positive in Him and instead stay trapped in the negatives, then we also will not be able to serve Him to the best of our abilities.  

In the past weeks, multiple speakers or mentors have voiced ideas on discernment and dedication.  They have brought up saying, 'Yes,' to God, prioritizing you, "Direction not intention..." (Mike Banks qtd. Andy Stanley), navigating new seasons of life, and more.  These similar themes always come back to God's calling to go.​  

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”  (Matthew 28, ESV)

It is hard to go, though, if we who are called are somehow stuck.  Recently, certain verses came to mind after reflecting on devotions and advice given during the annual cabinet retreat at WGM headquarters.  The following are a mix of my personal ways to avoid feeling paralyzed and wise words grasped from speakers.  I hope they can provide a starting point if/when you find yourself 'stuck,' but with a heart still eager to serve.
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Be purposeful about noticing and giving God glory.​
*Psalm 115: 1 says -- "Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your
name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your
faithfulness!"

Remember your responsibility, mission, and growth.
On this, *Isaiah 54: 2-3 says -- "Enlarge the place of your tent,
    and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out;
do not hold back; lengthen your cords and strengthen
your stakes. For you will spread abroad to the
right and to the left[a]"

Also remember to pray, to build your relationship with
Christ, and in that to offer thanksgiving.
*Colossians 4: 2 says -- "Continue steadfastly in prayer,
being watchful in it with thanksgiving."

No matter where you are, who you're with, or what
situation you are in, be ready to live and speak in 
such ways that honor the Lord.
*Colossians 4: 5-6 says -- "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders,
making the best use of the time. Let your speech always 
be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you
may know how you ought to answer each person."
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When I am stressed and not sure how to move past situations or people or whatever else, I bundle up all the things mentioned above in my heart and soul and pray, "Grant me wisdom, grant me grace, and put a smile on my face."  This attitude may not fix big issues, but you would be amazed at how much easier it can make taking at least a small step forward -- even (or especially) during the times I am the most stuck.

Remember, God is with us and His Spirit is in us, and His next thing for us may be just around the corner.

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[published by Jessie Denning - cabinet member 2016-2018]