24 …see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.
Psalms 139:24
If you are a parent, you will know that there are certain things that you will simply not give to your children until they are ready to handle the responsibility that goes with that particular desire.
At times this might seem a bit harsh, even unfair in their eyes, but from a parental point of view it’s not about harsh or unfair, it’s about what is best for them and their wellbeing moving forward.
So many times we wish to accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God, dreaming of the day we are able to step into a certain position God has prepared for us. The frustrating thing might be knowing that it’s right there, but that God is purposefully withholding it from you.
As we wonder why He does this, it boils down to the fact that our Heavenly Father desires only what is best for us. Give it too early and we will find ourselves unequipped and overwhelmed by the task at hand. We all are driven to bring a meaningful contribution to the kingdom, but if the timing isn’t right, we could well miss the mark, failing to do what we had hoped to achieve.
So what are some of the things that might be holding us back from stepping into such a contribution?
Maturity
Every one of us needs to reach a point in our lives where we start thinking, talking and reasoning like mature individuals. While we cannot always rush this part of our development, it needs to be something we actively pray and work towards in our journey with the Lord.
He is calling each and every one of us to reach a certain milestone before handing us the next step in our journey towards our contribution.
Sin
Habitual sin is often the one thing that keeps us from receiving what the Lord wishes us to step into. When those moments of temptation come our way, it’s a test to see whether or not our desire to step into that which the Father has for us is more important than the desires of the flesh.
Anything more important than the kingdom reveals to us that we are simply not ready for that which God has in store for us. It all boils down to that which you desire more in the end.
As you think about these reasons and why you still find yourself not stepping into that which the Lord has for you, remember that He is only looking out for your best interest. Let Him deal with that which needs to be dealt with and to mature you for the right time. You’ll be grateful in the end.
Prayer:
Lord. The desire to make a meaningful contribution might be great, but if I’m not ready or show You that I still find some things more important, then please deal with me and help me reach the place You desire me to reach. I trust Your judgement and know it will be worth it in the end. Thank you Lord Jesus. Amen.