Day 26: Just Follow

Does God call each one of us to commit to reach the world? Surely God didn’t mean me….Or did He?

Let me share briefly with you about a journey God took me on that started about a year ago. I can remember the moment I felt the tug of God at my heart…I left the church service, walked up to Jim and Ralph, and discussed briefly the possibility of joining them on the next Mission trip to the Amazon River Basin. Before I walked away with the information folder that they had given me, I remember Jim saying, “Oh you’re taking the folder! That means you’re definitely going. God will work out the details.” I thought to myself, “Really, these guys do not realize the details that would have to be worked out for me to go.” But I took the folder home and began praying and asking for God if this was a place He wanted me to serve. I had to admit, the thought of traveling to Brazil to bring medical care to the needy and the good news of God’s love to all certainly sounded like a “no brainer” – those are things that I love to do. But after thinking about all of the details…the MONEY, leaving my FAMILY, my DIABETES… I gradually put aside the folder and figured it just was not the right time for me to go… that God must not be calling me. That was in September/October 2008.

But God did not let me “off the hook” that easily. In December, the Director of FCA spoke here at GBC. He talked about sharing God’s love with others, specifically around the world. But the part I remember the most is when he said, “What is it that is keeping you from obeying God’s call?” During that service I felt the undeniable voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. I did not question it at all. I knew without a doubt that God was calling me to commit to reach the world. And so I did. I was reassured by fellow brothers and sisters in Christ that God would provide everything I needed to make this happen.

And provide He did!!! The money, the time off work, the support of my family and the courage to follow where He was leading me – on a trip far away, with a group of people I barely knew, to share His love with people that did not even speak the same language. And then He did what He loves to do… He blessed me beyond measure! My relationship with God grew as I trusted God with my family (He loves them more than I do!) and as I trusted Him as the Great Physician (He kept my diabetes in perfect control!). I grew as I connected with the team and developed new friendships. My faith grew as I saw God answer prayers on my behalf. I grew as God gave me a special love for others around the world. And I grew deeper in love with my Father, my Savior, my Friend.

Yes friend, God calls each one of us to commit to reach the world (Matthew 28:16-20). Maybe He is calling you to physically go, or to give of your treasures to send someone else, or partner in prayer for those who are going. However God leads – just follow. You will be forever changed!

~Candi Melott