Lessons Along The Way

The lessons we set out to learn, are not always the ones God intends for us to grasp.

Our first stop before flying to South Africa was Tampa, Florida. We attended a seven day conference for leaders and ministers, one that was focused on the Holy Spirit and the impartation of gifts. I was feeling the need for extra ‘gifts’ in my ‘tool box’ if I were to have the heart to do all that we felt that the Lord was calling us to do in Southern Africa. I went there hoping to ‘get filled’ and sent on my way. However, through the knowledgeable speakers and Holy Spirit, God taught me something entirely different. He is not a God of “quick fixes”! He reminded me that people can be filled by the Holy Spirit, but are often not yielded to Him and therefore their “fire” dissipates to an ember.

God ignites and uses people who are yielded to His Spirit; those who give Him full control on a hour by hour, day by day basis. We cultivate and stir the flames within us, when we ignore the distractions this world brings and keep our focus on Jesus and His will. Obeying His Spirit…when we feel the quiet urge to give someone our time, when our day is already filled; giving all the cash in our purse to those in front of us, who need it more; giving our husbands our full attention when we are tired, etc.

The ability to do this resides in the quiet place… spending time with Jesus on a daily basis so that He “fills us up” with the strength, ability and heart to obey His leading. Although, very beneficial, God reminded me that I don’t need an annual conference or household name minister to pray for me. All I need is time alone with Him. I encourage you today to also spend time with the Lord and keep your ‘inner fire’ of God’s Spirit burning!