“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV)
One day, on the beach alone, the Holy Spirit compelled me to be still. He whispered. I wrote the words God spoke to my heart and was inspired to take a picture of a nearby shell. Pausing in His presence and enjoying the beauty of my surroundings brought peace and freedom. This moment was significant because a surge of inspiration washed over me, urging me to document what God revealed.
At that moment, life changed. A love of nature and God birthed in me a need to write, glorifying God. Thus began my journey of writing during our alone times in nature.
Two scriptures come to mind when I reflect on my writing journey.
• He says, “Be still, and know that I am God…” (Psalms 46:10 NIV).
• See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland (Isaiah 43:19 NIV).
Looking back, I can see God invited me to walk and dream with Him through the rough places. Longing to see what God would do once I surrendered, I trusted Him, sought alone time with Him, and recorded those precious moments. While depending upon God, I discovered six ways God helps us achieve our dreams.
God guides—He isn’t limited by time, so don't rush ahead of him. His timetable doesn’t correspond with the deadlines and things that concern us. Relax and enjoy strolling life’s path with our Savior, knowing everything is in God’s perfect timing. God guides us toward an unimaginable dream while “…haste leads to poverty” (Proverbs 21:5, NIV).
God knows—Although we don’t know where life’s road ends, leaning on God and not our understanding frees us of strife. In an uncertain world, we can come to Christ with empty hands and a grateful heart, confident God will fulfill his plan. Our priority is to follow God, not feelings, and to heed his voice. The Bible tells us when we search for God’s hidden treasures, we gain understanding and knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:4-5).
God strengthens & equips—Weakness doesn’t disqualify us because Christ equips and strengthens. We can find comfort in trusting God. It isn’t important to know plans beforehand. Time will reveal them. Our relationship with God is our priority.“So do not fear, for I am your God, I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10, NIV).
God cares—Our soul's condition and relationship with God are important to him. Having a close bond with Almighty God is invaluable to our spiritual growth. The level of God's purpose and care for us is immeasurable. “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails” (Proverbs 19:21, NIV).
God answers prayer—The desire to know God’s plan for our lives by strategic prayer should be a priority. He will show clear signs he hears us and is near those who call on him. The Bible says, "he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6, NIV).
God reassures—Rest in knowing God is in control, and when we trust him, he provides us with reassuring peace. In due time, God will reveal his plan. In the meantime, continue to strive. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV).
Prayer: Jesus, my heart is full of gratitude for our quiet times together. Nothing compares to knowing my Lord intimately! Please help me receive divine guidance from you consistently. Dear Lord, please remind me to live with thankfulness and walk confidently where the Holy Spirit leads, knowing I am blessed!
Your Turn: Often, God speaks to us in unique ways. There doesn’t seem to be a cookie-cutter way for this to happen. For me, it just happens to be through nature. How does God speak to you? Do you find inspiration through music, nature, or quiet times?