how to get back in your (main) lane
Last weekend I was at an event (some of you were there) and by the end of it I sensed God clearly inviting me to return to some key areas of ministry I have been too busy to focus on in awhile. Specifically, writing, speaking, coaching, and the soaking worship events my husband and I love doing together.
I know that’s (still) a lot of things, but hang with me here…
Over the past few years I have gradually sacrificed time I used to devote to exercising these ministry muscles as I’ve gotten busier helping other creatives with branding, websites, and practical aspects of building their own ministries.
While these are all worthy pursuits I know God has still called me to, the ratio had gotten a little lopsided, edging out available margin for the seemingly “less practical” yet deeply meaningful ministry spaces God uniquely designed my voice to operate in.
This week I’ve already taken steps to reset the ratio, and it feels really empowering to surrender some things in faith that God will open the doors he wants to as I make myself more available to him.
I want you to experience that same joy.
There are a lot of “good” things you can do in life, but are you giving enough attention to the “main lane” you feel called to?
Another way of asking this is, “How are you stewarding the UNIQUE voice God gave you?”
In my experience, there are three key things that get in the way:
Lack of CLARITY.
Perhaps you’re not really sure what you’re called to in this season. Maybe, like me, you are able to wear a variety of hats and have lost sight of which things should get your primary focus. Or maybe you’ve never felt you had the time to explore the unique aspects of how God made you. There’s no shame in this, but until you have clarity it will be hard to be wise with your “yes” and your “no”, which means you’ll have less time to PURSUE the clarity you need. And on the cycle goes…
Lack of CONFIDENCE.
Maybe you ARE clear on your calling, but feel overwhelmed by questions about whether you’re qualified, how you’ll do it financially, or how far the distance feels from dream to reality. This can be an easy target for the enemy to get you to focus on what’s easiest and most financially and/or practically doable., which often results in putting the MOST UNIQUE aspects of your God-given voice on the back burner.
Lack of CONNECTION.
As I shared at last week’s event, I am continually reminded of the ESSENTIAL gift of being relationally connected to others who KNOW us and reflect LOVE to us when it comes to feeling equipped and brave enough to move forward in our calling. These connection points are also critical in helping us discern what Jesus wants us to know about where he’s leading us. Even for those with strong discernment gifts, healthy community helps fill the gaps of our unavoidable subjectivity.
The best news: Jesus knows what step(s) you need to take next.
hat means it’s not all on you to figure it out. But it also means the wise move is to take a little time - maybe even today - and ask him what it is. And then listen for his voice.
Maybe it’s emailing someone you trust and sharing a dream that’s on your heart, just so it’s out there in front of an encouraging witness. Maybe it’s signing up for a discovery call to learn about how my coaching can help you get some more clarity, confidence and/or steps toward connection. Or maybe it’s taking a look at the community you already have and asking Jesus how you can invest more deeply in growing it. And then taking a risk, and doing it.
Whatever it is, you can be sure Jesus will lovingly lead you forward. Cause even though he can wear all the hats, he never leaves his main lane. :)
For TRUTH…
- cr
