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Just Prove It.

When anyone strives to follow God's will in his or her life, there's a certain amount of trust that you need to have in the Almighty. In Jeremiah 29:11 God tells us "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

OK...... God's plans for us are good...... I can hang with that....... We can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good. But what about the times that I'm not sure I'm living my life in line with God's plans? What if I want something a little more solid than a promise? What if a "sign" from God isn't enough? What if I want to see some solid proof? And if I need "proof," do I really trust God?

About six weeks ago, I felt pretty sure that I was heading down the road that God has for my life. But to continue on this road would mean that I would be making some tough decisions concerning my job and time commitments -- decisions that once they're made, there's no turning back from. Do I apply for Job A, which would mean a promotion, different responsibilities, more money, and a relocation? I'm good at my present job, and with my knowledge and experience I would have a lot to offer the new position. Seeking a promotion would be the natural next thing to do on my job. Or, do I apply for Job B, a demotion with less pay, but frees my mind and energy to develop and use my gifts and abilities to serve God more?

To buy more time in making a decision, I applied for both. I must be the only person I can think of who would apply for both a promotion AND a demotion, in the same company, in the same week. Right around this time, I am filling in at a neighboring office, filling in for the same job classification as my 'home' office. Guess what? This neighboring office has a position open, and the office manager is hoping I'll consider applying for it.

I feel like I'm on the game show "Let's Make A Deal." Do I choose Door Number 1 - The Shiny New Promotion; Door Number 2 -- More of the same of what I've been doing the past 4 1/2 years; or Door Number 3 -- the door covered in blood -- what some would see as "giving up what I've worked so hard to accomplish" and living more for God, but not sure exactly what it will mean?

My choice is to take what's behind the door covered in the Blood of the Lamb -- Door #3.

In praying for guidance, I didn't simply "give it to God." I didn't ask for a "sign". After all, this is going to mean some changes for me. I want proof that this is what's in God's plans. I don't know what kind of proof I'm looking for, or even if I'd recognize the proof if it were right in front of me. I just trust in God enough that he will not be subtle in showing me the direction He wants me to take.

Bringing you up-to-date, God has in fact started showing me proof. Door Number 2 is definitely closed. About a week ago, the manager of the office where I am on loan to informed me that the opening in her office is no longer available, and has been re-allocated to another facility.

No word yet on the other two opportunities.

God is amazing!


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