My life is one long career counseling session.
I’ve lost count of the tests and books, the hours of discussion, the rabbit trails run to determine what I’m supposed to be when I grow up.
Another career consultation looms today. Part of the relocation package. Help for the uprooted spouse.
I wonder how many people go through this. Figuring out how best to care for your family while also using your abilities to contribute meaningfully and financially with work outside the home.
Meaningfully. Oh, how I’d like to be passionate about my work.
Financially. Oh, how I’d like to be compensated for it.
I’m not much for the process. Just get to the point. Tell me the answer without the ambiguities.
But life’s not like that, is it?
The Israelites stood on the banks of the Jordan River at flood stage, waiting to cross. It had been quite a journey and Moses was dead.
The officers circulated through the camp. They told the people to watch for the ark of the covenant, the symbolic box where God lived. It would lead the way.
“Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before.”
I’ve never been this way before either. Out here in Kansas with nothing but God and ground and sky.
“Keep a distance of about a thousand yards between you and the ark; do not go near it.”
The pastor I heard teach this from Joshua 3 said the ark was far ahead of the people so all of them could see it. The distance symbolized the separation between God and the people’s sin.
Joshua then told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.”
And God did. That very day He parted the river waters for them to cross.
I don’t follow an ark. Christ’s death and resurrection closes the separation between Him and my sin. He comes near to me. Emmanuel, God with us.
Chin up, buttercup. Keep walking. Who knows what amazing things await?
Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness (or your Righteous One) will go before you,
and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard. Isaiah 58:8 NIV
Love at first listen. Revel in Head Full of Doubt/Road Full of Promise by Carolina boys The Avett Brothers. Decide what to be and go be it…
I am constantly reminded of Psalm 139… every day is already planned for you. Your path is already made. Trust in it. Trust in HIM. :)
I love it when people who read my posts suggest other scriptures because they always suggest ones I love. Psalm 139 is a life-giving passage. Thank you for the reminder, Chris!
Wow. I hadn’t read this until right now. And yesterday I wrote something along similar lines. I’m no genius, but is California next to Kansas? Because I feel you, brilliant Internet blogger. I feel you.
Thank you, Miss Amy, for that compliment bathed in CA sunshine! I needed it today.
I love your honesty, humility and open heart. You are a breath of fresh air in this competitive world we live in. Bless you Aimee!
Bless you, Jeanne.
I’m constantly in awe of your Biblical knowledge and your ability to relate scripture to life. I, too, have been on this career journey for what feels like forever, and now as I shift my focus, I really needed this perspective. Thank you, as always.
Thank you for reading. I’m honored you do.
PS: The Bible stuff comes from church sermons and seven years of BSF (Bible Study Fellowship). Hands down the best study if you want to read and learn about the Bible for yourself without going to seminary.
The Is. 58:8 verse means God has your back, Aimee! Whatever He leads you to do, He’s equipping you to do it & do it well. And, it may not be the same thing for a lifetime, as I have found in ministering to women outside of the marketplace. Watch – listen – & wait on the Lord! And, whatever you find to do, do it as unto the Lord. (:
Love to you, Diana. You’re priceless!
i think you should be a DJ “when you grow up”- you introduce me to some great songs!
I knew I’d missed my calling.
I think this is such a difficult issue to get my mind around. I know I still have a brain and miss the intellectual engagment of working outside the home not to mention the paycheck! But, because of my serious control issues I cannot see someone else taking over my responsibilites to my satisfaction. I think the one answer might be working for yourself and generating income. Now how that’s done is the million dollar question. If you come up with it I will be paying you a kickback fee. And since we can often see others answers easier than our own….I think you should write the books, link it to your blog and yes you might need to take advertising adds. Did I mention I make a great gopher!
You’re hired. Period.
There’s one thing I’ve learned (and still am)–when God’s in control of the journey–it’s gonna be an awesome trip! Disney World “ain’t got not’ing” on it. Sorry–just quoting my kids on that one. LOL We may still be asking, “Are we there yet? Are we there yet??? Are we there YET?????” But only He will say, “Ok, guys, we’re here!” What a glorious day that will be!
BTW–let me know when you decide to be when you grow up cause I’m still walking that road too…LOL
Wonderful comment, Lara! I don’t think we’ll ever grow up, so it’s a very good thing God’s driving!