As my “70 in 7” projects draws to a close, I have started to reflect on my life before it began. In the first three months of 2013, I lost count of the number of times I came before the Lord in prayer saying the words, “I don’t know,” followed by a lengthy list of uncertainties that were plaguing me. I knew then that if I was going to get past my self-criticism, self-condemnation and overflowing complaints, I would have to make some grand gesture of change, some monumental form of surrender, something deliberately so beyond me that I’d forever be persuaded to believe in a God capable of transformation and the working of His purposes within me to assure my destiny.
Criticism, condemnation and complaint are creatures of the wind, they come and go on the wasted breath of lesser beings and have no power over me. With a decided heart we learn to break through fear and judgment and to pursue our dreams with determination and focus. We set our course and insure our destiny. A decided heart is unwavering in the face of continual challenges and setbacks, and that insures a lifetime of greater fulfillment.
– Andy Andrews, Mastering the Seven Decisions
Over the last seven months, all of those uncertainties that were once lingering in my unsettled heart have been swung about as if in a centrifuge, whereby the gravitational hand of God has laid each one to rest in its proper place. All because I did one simple act of obedience—I said “yes” to this project—suddenly, my life course has been established before me. I have met some amazing, inspirational people and joined a phenomenal team and community of others who want to make a real difference in this world. I have begun developing my own talents and allowed the Lord to begin using them for His glory. I have inspired a few people myself and know that God will continue to develop me as His leader and light to others. Above all, I have unswervingly decided to pursue the dreams He has birthed in my heart this year, no matter the challenges that may come.
“You may have obstacles that look insurmountable, dreams that look unattainable, but when God releases a flood of His power, nothing will be able to stop you.” – Joel Osteen
Oh Lord, open the floodgates! I’m ready! Let’s GO!
[Enormous gratitude, Gary Kohl, for your continued inspiration and encouragement.]
The Art of Choosing True Life 