The Power of Yes!

When was the last time the Lord led you to do something difficult? How did you respond to it? Did you doubt, question, hem and haw about what you were being led to do because of your own abilities? Did you think you weren’t good enough? Did you think you weren’t smart enough? Did you think you didn’t want to work that hard? 

I know exactly how that feels. When I was compelled to apply for my current job, I didn’t know what to think. I had acted in the position for four months prior and really liked the team and for the first time considered that a role like this one could be for me. However, I had no real desire for it or plan to move from the home that was almost finished paying for. I had plans for that house and my retirement and none of that included a move to the Midwest and the cold (it snowed last night and has been below freezing for most of the day). 

But I knew God had something more for me to do. It wasn’t what I wanted, but I wasn’t able to sleep at night until I decided to apply. My prayer – if I wasn’t hearing from God and this job wasn’t for me, that He would block it. Like I said, I didn’t want the job, but I knew He was preparing me for more. Would it be a challenge? Absolutely. But would it be rewarding and fulfilling? Probably. Would I be stretched and sometimes uncomfortable? Sure – it’s not comfortable to grow (Isa 41:10). 

I was forced to remember that God doesn’t call us to anything we can do on our own. If we can do something in our own power, it’s not God. Think about all the heroes and heroines of the Bible – nothing God called them to, could they do on their own. He always leads us to something where we have to lean and depend on Him. He will get the glory – it will not be ours. When we trust and acknowledge Him, He will direct our path (Prov 3:5-6). 

The times I’ve said “yes” to God’s will for my life have been some of the most challenging but most fulfilling overall (this one included). It’s been in those times that I’ve learned the most about Him and myself and my relationship with Him. Saying “Yes” to the Lord is never a mistake. He knows what’s best for us and because He does, our following His leading always works out for our best (Rom 8:28). Saying “Yes” to God is really surrendering our will to His will (Jam 4:8-10). Recognizing that He knows better than we do and His will is better than ours, can only bless us in the long run.

Want to glorify the Lord and be blessed by Him, say “Yes” to Him. He will never disappoint. And even when trials come, He will never leave nor forsake you (Psa 55:22; Deut 31:6). Try Him for yourself.