We were created for exceptionally great things – because we were designed by an even greater God. But more often than not, the pathway to greatness involves terrible first drafts, overexposed photographs, lifeless audition reels, and the list continues. Unfortunately, a lot of these don’t even get to see the light of day because human as we are, we become consumed by fear – fear of soul-crushing rejections, of sharp critique, and unmet expectations. This is not only the case for the artist, but for the believer.
It took me two listless years to create She Makes Him Known, my personal faith and beauty blog targeted towards women (high schoolers to young adults). After graduating from university, entering the workforce overwhelmed me. I prioritized my corporate, full-time job in a TV station, which led me to sacrifice many things including my passion for blogging.
To the core of my being and the depths of my heart, I already knew what I wanted to do. I had this grand vision I held on to for the longest time yet I was too afraid to move. A huge part of me felt as if this passion of mine – churning out organic content on a public platform – was not from God…and it needed to be forgotten. Looking back now, this thought was a product of exhaustion and fear.
Having a 9-hour job from Monday to Friday is not easy. It’s completely acceptable to go home after a long day’s work and settle – but it easily breeds unhappiness and discontent; after all, we’re created to create. Well, I published my blog a year ago, and the world is still moving. It also happens to be one of the best decisions of my life. I learned so late that I can work and still be passionate about other things and intentionally make time for it. It is a commitment, which reaps love and growth. Loving the journey and owning the process – disappointments, detours, and breakthroughs – allow me to devote more time and space for it.
My season of waiting and discernment was not for naught. I discovered that God was purifying my intentions and allowing me to live out virtues and ideas I knew to be good but barely had a grasp on. He was also placing the right people in my life to keep reaffirming this dream.
Have you ever felt that way? Where you become emotionally, mentally, and spiritually paralyzed because you don’t know if you should act on an inherently good desire? You echo the same sentiments again and again, “Is it God who placed this in my heart?”
What are things you are called to do which God is clearly impressing upon you which you’ve given up on? This may be your dormant dream to continue further studies after university. It may be your desire to lead a Bible study group in church. It can even be your hope to have a family of your own. Whatever your hope and dream, God will glorify Himself in the process – most of the time, in your deepest struggles.
Stop making excuses – even using God’s name to mask your fear – and move. More often than not, when we’re wary and waiting on God and His will to be revealed to us, we’re asked to step out in boldness and faith. Some of the greatest breakthroughs in my life come from a stubborn heart, humbled by God, immersed in the uncomfortable.
Discern God’s timing. It may be a resounding “yes” in your heart but a “not yet” from Him – sometimes, it may even be a “no.” Regardless, to seek Him – through constant prayer, Bible reading, and fellowship – is the answer in itself. Wade in uncertainty, and revel in possibilities knowing that the hands who hold the world laid out this path for you. God is such an intentional God; He knows exactly what He’s doing for your story. He doesn’t waste a day, and He won’t waste you.
No matter the mess, God will faithfully bless the work of your hands. Go beyond yourself, and see what the world needs. Lay the weight of perfection, and make room for grace to fill in the gaps. For every dream, I ask, “Where does God fit into the picture?” when I should be declaring, “God, You are here. Lead me.” We will be wasting time if we searched for His concrete, specific will. I am learning day by day to trust in the path, knowing He is near.
In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. (Proverbs 16:9)
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This article originally appeared on YesHEis.