Stepping Out.

I have made the decision to step out in faith on an issue. Nothing to do with our church(felt I had to say that so people won't panic!), but something in a personal mode. One of my heart's desires since I became a Christian. It is controversial to some. But after years of praying, I felt like the time was now. It is not a fleece or a test to see if God is powerful, though He will be glorified. It is not just to see God move, though I know it will only be through Him.

Sometimes we have to be like Peter and get out of the boat. We need to hear and discern that it is Him prompting us and then move on it. And because I didn't want to go through thte controversy or the persecution I have hesitated a few times, perhaps wondering if I hear from the Lord. But like Abraham and Isaac at the sacrificial altar, I know God loves me.

We are stepping out in faith in an effort to secure a meeting place. But that doesn't really affect me personally. All that anyone can do is refuse me. That's minor persecution. This one is tied to me. I am the recipient of whatever the results are.

I was told my car needs $400 worth of repair, but with 216,000 miles my mechanic recommended driving it into the ground(my wife gets nervous about the noise in the strut tower!). Believing for a new car is easier. Who knows maybe God will supply a transmission and motor. Personally, I would like a van as my teenagers who sit in back find their elbows and knees connected!!! God has blessed us with the material things we need. He met the needs for a computer when we needed it. We have never gone hungry. We have learned to make do with what we have. I began my taxes yesterday. According to the government we lived below the poverty level. And yet we are rich by God's grace. I would love a new(er) vehicle, but I trust in God in vehicles. In America it is pretty hard to go hungry. We began a 40 day limited fast of vegetables and grain. And we miraculously we have been supplied with vegetables and breads and grains at no charge(except our obedience!) that are excellent! We are blessed. How do we live on a 20% of what we made two years ago? I can only tell you that obedience to God's Word in the area of finances is most helpful. Yes, there are things we forego-but they are not that important. But, I am amazed what God can do with 90% of my salary. We live in an excellent home, have two vehicles (with insurance!), and food on the table. We are able to bless our church and others. Faith. Stepping out. We even began to pay two old bills which we knew God was calling us to obedience on. We have virtually no debt and expect to break loose of it all.

Some of you need to trust Him. I could have justified the situation I am coming against and not rocked the boat like Peter. It is time the body of Christ began to move and to look like the King of Kings. Time we pushed forward in faith. How many times have I heard from someone of their disobedience? Only to find that once they repented God was there with His blessing hand. I have people who come to me and say God told me to give this to you months ago. Their lives have been dealt with because they weren't obedient.

So, I am stepping out. I don't really want to but I know that God will be there.