Three weeks in a row.
Remember when I shared that we were starting an adoption bible study at our church?
After two years of wondering when God was going to open up the door.... I thought he had.
Praying for his leading and for the hearts of others to be opened to learning more about adoption--- how we are all adopted into God's family through His Son--- it appeared that it was time.
But time for what?
To lead a bible study-- that's what.
I thought what better way to get to know others then by doing a bible study about something that we are passionate about.
Of course people would come, right?
Wrong.
Maybe I had it all wrong.
My husband suggested that we pack up ship and go to one of the other Sunday school classes being offered.
Me--- let's just say a little five letter word called pride was trying to talk me out of it.
John suggested it again--- maybe he was right.
So we packed up our stuff and headed over to another study.
And you know what?
I met some new people.
I had fun.
I learned a thing or two.
As I reflect on this whole Sunday class thing, I am amazed how God continues to work in me. Not always in ways that I want, but truthfully, in ways that I need. Often times I have my mind set on something, and I convince myself that it is a great idea, when
Ephesians 3:20-21 (The Message)
God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.
My plans don't look at the grand scheme of things.
His does.
Right now, I am supposed to be attending a Sunday school class, not leading one.
At least not yet.
16 inspiring thoughts:
aw. that happened to us too. we started a class on biblical lay counseling. people attended, took the certifications, then just disappeared. it will happen.
Oh Christine, I am sad.
Oh Christine, I've been there too. But it's true, God takes us where we need to go. Your heart is certainly in the right place. It will happen when the time is right!
Oh Christine that is how we wanted to start our adoption ministry at our church, first by leading a small group about adoption and orphan care, something we are passionate about. It just never took off. After coming home from retreat meeting others that have adopted, I am just certain there must be a need. Adoption does not stop the day the child is placed into your home, it is a lifelong process for both the adoptee and adoptive parent. I can speak of this because I am both!
I say stay with it. You have so much to offer, even if it is just another couple that finds you. You for sure will bless them!
All I can think is that I would've come! I understand pride well enough.
I have wanted the same thing for years at our church! Nothing doing, though.
I would have come to yours. . .if we lived closer than an entire country away!
God bless and don't let the idea go. . .it just might be time yet.
Stacy
Darn pride - it gets in the way, doesn't it? (((HUGS)))
Hey, don't worry, happens to the best of us! :o) I get like that, the numbers in my Scout group have been dwindling and i have taken it quite personally, then I prayed and the answer dropped into my head! ;o)
Hugs!
oh my, i am so sorry. that is really too bad, i would have come.
i appreciate that you went to another class and i am glad you were blessed and encouraged.
been there girl.
Hey, might you be willing to lead that as an ONLINE class? Maybe through a private yahoo group? I know some friends who have done some Beth Moore studies like that...they live all over the US.
I would really be interested.
Let me know what you think!
Your story has touched my life and family. Your blog was one that encouraged me as we were adopting our twins . One had a cleft lip and palate and we already had 3 bio boys. The medicals were scary and when I would read your blog my fear would go away. Dont think for a minunte your story is not being used. I have learned when God seems to shut a door it only means your vision was not Big enough!!!!!
It sounds like such a great idea, but I think it is probably too intense for most people. It undoubtedly seemed like a sort of pre-commitment....especially because of who was teaching it. If someone taught it who HADN'T adopted, I bet there might have been more interest. Just a thought.
I have had interest in an adoption ministry group in my parish - but I've simply been too busy to do it. :(
What God is doing in you and your family's life is inspiring! My husband is a pastor in South MS and we have been trying to have a child for 5 of the 7 years we have been married. We have just been licensed as foster parents and are also in the midst of praying about what fertility step to take next. The waiting is so hard, but I know His plan is greater than anything imagined. Jeremiah 29:11! Thank you for being willing to be used by Him with this blog. I check frequently and He speaks. God bless!
Hey, I read a comment that asked if you would offer the adoption study online. I would totally be interested. On another note if I didn't live so far away up here in Canada I would have come.
Also, I know I have asked you once before and somehow I have lost the website adress, what site do you make your headers on? They are so creative.
Thanks Catherine
You've got a wise man, that you probably already know! How brave of you to share with us too! I know looking at my life now I wonder how God has my other passions and giftings in mind to be used, but I know this too is for a season. Bloom where you are planted!
our pride sure causes us some problems sometimes, yet so thankful you listened to your husbands voice and moved beyond it! theres always a lesson in everything we do its just a matter of if we want to see it, hear it and apply it!
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