A lot on my mind. . . .

My brain has been getting a serious workout lately. I have certainly had a lot on my mind, and at times I feel as though my thoughts are a jumbled mess. The good news is that I believe God is doing a good work in me right now--He feels very close. You will have to excuse the randomness and lack of cohesion but I am going to unleash some of the many thoughts that have been running through my mind.

1. My career: God does not care as much about what I do as how I do it. I have struggled recently in understanding exactly what I should be doing with my life. Should I be coaching and teaching or doing something else? I think the truth is, God made me with a number of different talents and abilities which would be suitable for a thousand different careers. But, what is most important is that I work for the Lord. My work/job/career is simply an avenue of showing my Christlike character and bringing others to God. For the longest time now, I have treated my career as a way to improve my status, achieve personal success, make money, etc. I want to see my career through God's eyes and use it to reach others.

2. It's not about me: God made me for a purpose. I am learning more about that purpose as I read Rick Warren's book The Purpose Driven Life. I have been selfish for a lot of years. My focus has been on ME. I have been jealous of siblings, friends, and colleagues. I have envied the talents of others and rested on my laurels. (See a great reading on laurels here.) For the first time, I am beginning to understand that I am here on earth to please GOD. And, the great thing is that I am excited about finding more ways to do that. God wants me to use my unique personality and abilities to serve others and praise Him.

3. Worship: I am discovering that worship is so much more than sitting in a pew singing, praying and listening. Worship is continual, it's never ending, it's eternal, it's glorifying and pleasing God in everything I do. Think about it, using your abilities/talents with God in your heart is an act of worship. Colossians 3:23 reads, "Whatever you do, work at with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." Even my running has become a way in which I can glorify God.

4. Life is meant to be shared: Colossians 3:15--"Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace." I have always considered myself somewhat of a loner. Mostly because of my social awkwardness--I have used this as an excuse to avoid others. In the past, I have been afraid that others might see my weaknesses. my inadequacies and I have shut them out. However, the truth is I need others in my life. Steph and I have been attending a Young Marrieds bible study, and it has been such a blessing in my life. Knowing I have a group of men praying for me and holding me accountable each week is very reassuring.

Those are just a few of the things in my head. The other thoughts are still jumbled and confused, but I am really excited about the way God is working on me right now.