I was raised in a Christian home, and my mother was a woman of God who ensured I had a Christian foundation. As I achieved my career goals, I became successful, but I was not paying attention to God’s plans. Although I prayed, I heard what I wanted to hear. I got caught up and enjoyed success and burning the candle at both ends.
I was loving the fruits of my career, but I was not being obedient. I found myself driving the boat, i.e. doing it my way. I was planning, setting goals, and detouring from my foundational teaching. However, I was unfilled. I did not have JOY.
I had a conversation with a retired female executive, Pat, who I considered a role model. I poured out to her, describing my lack of JOY and sadness. My life looked great from the outside, but I confessed that I needed a change. Little did I know God sent me to talk to Pat.
Pat asked, “If I had taken time to slow down and open my heart to God, was I listening or doing it my way?” My response, “I am praying every day.” She said “Perhaps you need to examine what you are praying for, about, and listening to.”
She shared with me a scripture I know well, but was not applying…”For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jermiah 29:11 ESV
Pat asked, “Why are you not rebuilding your relationship with God and opening your heart to him? Listen to the promise He gave. Stop asking for what you want, and ask Him what He wants for you. Let Him give you Joy, He is the only one who can give you JOY!”
The conversation changed my life. Through a series of Christian mentoring discussions, Pat shared the seasons of her life; how God’s word impacted her, how she built a strong intimate relationship with God, how she listened to the Holy Spirit and became obedient. Pat was my Christian mentor and continues to feed me to this day. God knew what I needed and gave it to me.
As I have continued my journey, I have attempted to make changes myself, but thru God’s holding patterns, I have learned the following lessons:
- You must have an intentional, committed relationship to God.
- You must accept and believe God is the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- God has plans for your life. Ask Him, trust Him, obey Him.
- Everything you do on this earth is for the “Glory of God.”
- Be Still, Listen and See what God is doing.
- During the holding pattern i.e., the storms, discover the lesson.
- Be obedient to the Holy Spirit, don’t do it your way.
- Only God can give you joy and true fulfillment.
Not only did mentoring with Pat change me, I discovered that God had work for me to do in His Kingdom. He has given me a spirit to edify Him and share his word thru mentoring women. Thank God!
Remember, I was in a holding pattern, He was guiding me, and I followed His guidance by being obedient. I am thankful for God’s plan for me to mentor women. He had a specific assignment for me. It gives me JOY!
Pray about a mentor, and if God leads you, I would love to partner with you.
Blessings,
Glenda