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Take the initiative (3)
Next, we may need to change our mindset. If we can see what needs to be done, but we’re reluctant to take the initiative ourselves, it’s important that we try and discover what’s holding us back – otherwise, we won’t be able to move forward. Maybe we’re scared by risk, discouraged by past failures, or worried about what others will think of us. ‘Being afraid of people can get you into trouble, but if you trust in the Lord, you will be safe.’ We shouldn’t let our fears rule our lives; instead, we should hand them over to God and trust Him to see us through. We also shouldn’t wait for opportunities to come to us. Opportunity doesn’t very often just land on our plates. We have to go and look for it. It’s a good idea for us to spend time assessing our skills, talents, and resources. Doing this will give us a more accurate picture of our potential. Maybe you think that there’s nothing particularly unique about you, or that you don’t really have any special skills. But nothing could be further from the truth: ‘We all have different gifts, each of which came because of the grace God gave us’ (Romans 12:6 NCV). Finally, take the next step. It’s one thing to notice an opportunity; it’s another to act on it. We should choose the best opportunity we see, pray about it, do the best with it that we can, and keep going until we’ve done everything possible to make it happen. And when we’ve done our best – trust God to do the rest. ‘Trust [confidently] in the Lord forever [He is your fortress, your shield, your banner], for the Lord God is an everlasting Rock’ (Isaiah 26:4 AMP).
What Now?
Is there something you need to start but you just can’t manage to take that first step? Today, have an honest talk with God about anything that’s holding you back, and ask for His wisdom and guidance on moving forwards.
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