Yesterday we had our sanctuary dedication service. We retraced all that God did through this "100 day project" together. From scriptures given in tough times; to practical testimonies of God's provision.
We also learned some factors to consider when God is leading you in steps of faith. First, there is a desire put into the heart by God. A desire that won't let go and stirs you up to do something for His glory. Something led by His Spirit. Something you could stamp with "That's God!"
In Ezra 1 God "stirred up" Cyrus, King of Persia, to send Jews back to rebuild the Temple. (Something that was prophecied would happen at least 70 years previously). Then God "stirred up" the priests to go and do this task. Over 50,000 Jews took that journey back to Jerusalem. It all began with a desire, a stirring from God, to do His will.
Desire is then followed by design. God begins to put the pieces together for what He wants to do. Fingerprints that tell you He is leading. We often ask the questions, "What do you think that would that look like?" Or "What would be needed to see it unfold?" Those things become your prayer list to God. It may be finances, people in place, circumstances to change, or a number of things. Prayer puts God in charge and your will surrendered to His.
After we see God put those pieces in place in His design, then comes the direction. We will face challenges and God's Word is what sustains us in the battles and such as we have stepped out of the boat and are walking by faith. Write those verses He gives you down. They anchor you and build your faith through it all.l In the end you don't just "make it through barely", you make it through victoriously!
From desire, to design, to direction, to lastly....details. What are the pracitcal things God did to show you "This is God at work?" It may be people in place at just the right time. Or favor given that wasn't expected from those over you. Or maybe it's finances in place or things costing a lot less than expected. I firmly believe that when God is in it, you will see His hand all over it from beginning to end. Why? Because it's God's Work not yours. In the end, all glory goes to Him!
And so we go forward in praise and grace, thanking God for the work of faith and a new sanctuary. May He continue to save people, restore lives, and glorify Jesus as we preach and teach His Word faithfully there. May hearts be lifted in worship and the Spirit be poured out on lives there. And may God call people out to missions, ministry, and more from there.
