After His Own Heart

“’You acted foolishly,’ Samuel said. ‘You have not kept the command the LORD your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the LORD's command’” (1 Samuel 13:13-14).

When I look back nearly 2 years ago, I find it so hard to believe that God would chose me to lead such an extraordinary group of women at our church. Living in sin, lost in the world, unsure of who I even was were issues that plagued me. I was seeking God, trying to make new friends, trying to get this "God-thing" figured out. I had been walking in the woods, and was looking for the way out.

I was far from who I would have chosen to lead this group. But as I look at 1 Samuel I see something so important- the LORD has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people!

As I look back I see that the only way JEWELS could have ever worked is if I trusted in Him! I didn't know much. I prayed, but I was kind of in the kindergarten of Christianity. The only way I could've led was to seek after God's heart. And so two years later- here we are.

We've gone from a minimum of 2 at a Bible Study to a maximum of 18 at a Bible Study! That's a 900% increase! Not because of me, but because of God.

Interstingly, I find that as I grow and learn more, it becomes increasingly important for me to maintain the real focus. As I grow more confident in my skills and abilities, it becomes more common for me to think I can do it on my own.

Thanks to a great team of leaders, I am always reminded that God is sovereign in control.

I guess, God is just pointing this out to me over and over again and I am drawn to it because I desire to fulfill His purpose for my life, and not my own. I desire to see his 900% improvements rather than my minor influence. I yearn for more of him and less of me. And I must admit... it takes a conscious effort, an awareness, and much prayer. I pray that my work is not done in vein and my motive for having a ministry that thrives on changed lives remains pure and about Him.

As you know more, and read more, are you forgetting God? Are you becoming proud? Be careful! It's so easy to forget the one who brought you here.

Dear Jesus,
Please help me to remain humble! Thank you for the work you are doing in JEWELS and in my life. I pray for the JEWELS group! Give them an undying love for your Word, and for You. Instill in them a deep desire to be obedient and honor you in ALL they do! Lord, protect us from the enemy! Keep us safe in your loving arms! But let us come out of our comfort zones to where you want us to be. Ignite a fire in our group, Jesus. Not for just the friendships with eachother, but with you! And Lord, help me to be a woman after your own heart.
In Jesus' name.
Amen.