1 Peter 5:6-7 (MSG) says:
6 So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. 7 Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.
I know the whole bible is inspired by God, but I secretly feel as these particular two verses were written into there by God, just for me. They are encouraging me through a season of my life where I sometimes struggle to be content with who I am, and where I’m tempted to ‘put on airs’.
God first whispered these words to me some years ago on a night when I couldn’t sleep. There was the chance at church to lead a significant and meaningful ministry and after putting up my hand, I wasn’t chosen for the role. I thought I was a leader. I’d experienced success in my career, being promoted quickly and empowered to lead. But even though I was involved in serving in lots of ways, at church I felt small and as though my gifts and abilities weren’t really noticed. I hadn’t been able to fall asleep as I lay there thinking that my church wasn’t really a place for me to be who God made me to be. I felt sad and discouraged so I decided to get up and read my bible. Before opening to the place I was up to, I prayed and ask God to help me find some peace about how I was feeling.
Those were the verses that were there, waiting to be read. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time.
I felt instantly comforted. My God knew me. He knew the plan he had for my life. I felt peace because I knew God was saying, “now is not the time, Vet. I will promote you at the right time.” I felt that the words contained deeply significant meaning, as though God was giving me a glimpse of a future where He would call on me, and use me and the gifts He’s placed in me to help further His Kingdom.
I met with a beautiful, strong, courageous woman of faith last week and she agreed to walk with me as I pursue a sense of call to pastoral ministry. After meeting with her, I had that feeling again; that God has some big plans.
I don’t feel small and as though my gifts aren’t noticed or needed anymore. These days I feel loved, valued and encouraged. I also feel as though God has placed many amazing people in my life who are wanting to help me grow.
I just need to remember…
No need for airs. Or boxing gloves.
Be content with who you are.
God’s strong hand is on you.
In His timing.
