Monday, July 21, 2008

Two Questions to Ponder

Today was the first day of the Proverbs 31 Woman Bible study that I've been preparing for weeks now. Y'all...God is SO good!! There were over 20 women that showed up! I didn't have enough handouts! But that's a GREAT problem to have! Woohoo! I told them that some of you all had prayed for the study and for them. It was awesome. The study this week covered Proverbs 31:10-15. Next week, we'll discuss verses 16-20.

I want to thank those who sent me comments of encouragement, text prayers, and positive thoughts. I really do appreciate it. God used you to work through me. Oh....He is so much fun!!!

New topic of discussion: Where does God want me to serve at my church? For the past year and a half, I've been leading a weekly Bible study for our high school girls. We discuss topics that affect them daily--usually drama! Can any of you moms of teen girls relate?? We also used "His Girl" by Vickie Courtney. It's a great study! Fast forward to this summer. We now have a new youth director--he's wonderful!! We met last week to see if my small group was to be continued. He would like for it to be, as well as my being a "shepherd" for the youth on Sunday nights for continuity. Oopsie! I did that service 18 years ago with Young Life and our church. Y'all, I do not feel that God is leading me in that direction. I love those little girls, but that's a HUGE commitment. Plus, both of my boys will be there. After the Bible Study today, I feel more like He's pointing me in the direction of "grown up" women's ministry. And it gets even more confusing!

Back in early April, I applied for a grant funded position with the State. It would involve working with at risk families in our area. It's a full -time position but with flexible hours. To be honest with you, I had forgotten about it. Then I got a phone call this afternoon. Y'all, I haven't worked full time in 11 years!!! As a substitute teacher, I can only work when the kids are in school. Right now, I'm out of "Mama money" until mid September. I love subbing--especially with the flexibility of working when and where I want to. The money is excellent. (SC schools aren't that bad!!) But, if God is leading me to do more in Women's ministry, I have to be flexible!

I have an interview on August 6 at 2:00. I can always change my mind and cancel, or I can give it a shot and see what happens. I'll definitely pray and discuss this with my sweet husband! But I would truly appreciate your prayers as well!! I want to follow God's will for my family and for me! Feel free to pass along your thoughts and "this is what I would do!" If you've got scripture to pass along to help me out, that would be awesome! Thanks so much for your input!

Try to stay cool wherever you are!
Blessings,
Susan

6 comments:

On Purpose said...

Susan wow God is just all around you right now!

I am praising God for the 20 women He brought to the Bible study today. Thank you for being obedient and allowing Him to speak through you to these women.

I am praying with you that it will be VERY clear where He wants you to be. I am praying for discernment and clarity in all this for you.

Love and prayers
Nichole

LeeBird3 said...

Wow! 20 women showed up! Sounds like you have a great group of women who want to run hard after God and be the women God created them to be! Cool!

Lord, I ask you to continue blessing this Bible study in ways that will blow Susan's mind! I also ask you to give her a definitive direction regarding your will for her work life this year. Give her husband divine wisdom, and help them to come to a mutual agreement that will be best for their family. You will is always best. Show em Lord! In Jesus' Name I pray, AMEN!

p.s. thanks for thinking of me today...first day back at work went well.

Joyful said...

Wow Susan!!!! Praise the Lord!

I'll be praying for you. I have several "open" doors before me right now too and I'm praying for God's direction. Because I know He has been faithful in the past, I'm 'being still' and waiting on Him. If you have any doubts at all, don't move. God will make His way clear in His time. My Pastor has always said, "When in doubt, don't!" Peace surrounds God's leading.

Love ya,
Joy

Paula V said...

Susan, I would say if you do not feel led to do the Sunday night thing do not let the Youth Director talk you into it.

If it were me, I would go to the interview...they aren't just interviewing you but you are interviewing them. Even if given a job offer, you can decline then. Check it out and see if you heart feels tugged after the interview.

After that point, I have no suggestions for you...haha...you will have to go with what your heart tells you regarding the new full time job (if offered to you) or continuing the study.

I will give you this verse that just came to mind...Prov. 16:9 In his heart man plans his course but the Lord determines his steps.

So, plan away...go to the interview, seek these things on your heart, then let God guide your steps into the right path.

I have faith in you to hear and heed God's instructions.
Love and prayers,
Paula

Gotta Run..... said...

WOW... that is big news!!! Hard call to make but you are the best at knowing what to do.

You and Craig will have much to think about but I am sure as a family you will know what to do.

I would go and at least hear what they have to say. What do you have to lose??

andi said...

I have seen your name on several blogs I read and wanted to come by for a visit! So glad I did. :) I'd love to offer my tidbits, even though I'm a newcomer. Hope that's ok.?.
1. In regards to the Bible Study-The need does not constitute the calling. Feel freedom in saying no if you're not led. There will be someone that the Lord raises in His time to be his guy/gal for the role.
2. I love flexibilty, how does your husband feel about full time? Sounds like the kiddos are older and you would be able to set your hours so you could be available for them?.
3. I can relate. I am heading back to "work" teaching K-5 in our preschool from 9-12 and am nervous about that. I haven't worked 5 days a week in 6 years.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. I know the Lord will direct your steps in accordance with His will for your life. I loved the devotion at the beginning! Thanks for sharing.
Blessings,
Andi