Don't Miss Out

How many times have you asked your children to try something new only to hear, "I don't like it," "I'm scared," or "maybe later"? You serve an unfamiliar vegetable or a new casserole and they push it aside before taking one bite. You buy them a new pair of shoes, but they prefer to wear their old shoes, even though they are falling apart. You encourage them to participate in a church or school activity, but they beg you not to make them go. They are unable to grasp how great an opportunity or how good for them these new experiences might be. Often, our children choose to miss out on a potentially great opportunity. 

Isn't this exactly how we treat our heavenly Father? Maybe you have been asked to teach a Sunday school class, but you declined. You are happy and comfortable where you are. An opportunity to facilitate a women's small group opened up, but you don't think you are knowledgeable enough. You feel called to serve on the hospitality committee at your church, but you just don't think you have the time. It is amazing how much we have in common with our children. We say no to something before we even give it a chance.

Do you have a fear of the unknown? Have you been listening to your own desires rather than the desires of our Lord? When we fail to pursue his requests, we are missing out on more than a fun experience or a healthy meal; we are missing out on an amazing opportunity to serve our precious Lord. What opportunities have you turned down recently? 

As a mom, I know our schedules are full. We cannot say yes to everything asked of us. However, it is important to reach out to the Lord before we say no to an opportunity to serve him. Spend time with the Lord today. Ask him where he is calling you. If you are afraid, ask him for confidence. If you lack knowledge, ask him to teach you. If you think you are too busy, ask him to help you adjust your schedule. If you choose to follow his desires, he will give you the support and direction you need.

Just as we want the best for our children, God wants the best for you. Listen to him today. Follow where he is leading you. Trust in him to guide you. Don't miss out on the wonderful blessings he has planned for you as you serve him and his kingdom.