Stepping Out in Faith -- Heading to "She Speaks"

Early this morning I sat by my computer, going over some last minute changes on my talks for the critique group I am participating in at the She Speaks conference I am attending this weekend. I’ll be joining 600 other women with a mutual focus on the Lord and what He has called us to do through ministry, writing and/or speaking; I’m nervous and excited.

One hundred things were teaming through my head – schedules for the 5 children, travel arrangements, last minute packing details, the weather, my hair, my shoes, what kind of bird was chirping outside of my window and thoughts like, ‘What was a I thinking when I registered for this?” and “I hope that I do not exceed the 50 pound weight limit on my suitcase.”

Just at the point of nearly being overwhelmed, my nine year old daughter appeared next to me. Wiping sleep from her eyes, wrapped in a pale pink blanket, adorned with hearts, she whispered to me, “Mom, let’s take a few minutes to pray. I’m really going to miss you.”

And so that’s what we did. We went in to the next room, where she curled up in my lap and we prayed. I prayed first for my family, for the details, for their hearts and for my trip. Then, she prayed for me. Her sweet little voice spoke words of encouragement and love, asking the Lord to protect me, help me with my talks and give me a wonderful time.

Just what I needed, at just the right time – prayer.

A few months ago, a friend gave me this quote:

“What really matters when God calls you to do something is not whether you feel inadequate. Of course you will; you are inadequate. So am I. That’s why God promises to go with us. What matters is your decision. Only people who say “yes” to challenge, demand and risk are ever fully alive.” -- John Ortberg.

Although I still have a fleeting thought of, “What was I thinking?”, I am stepping out in faith, trusting that the Lord opened up this opportunity for me to learn more and to grow, and that He has already gone before me and will be with me (Deuteronomy 31:8).

If you are led to pray for me, thank you. I will be gone through the weekend. Please pray for my family, as well.