A Life in Exile

Do you sometimes wonder about the choices you make in life? Have I done the right thing? Am I going the right way?

I’m right there with you. It’s not easy, and I think that is one of the reasons many people don’t choose to follow Christ. Unlike other religions or philosophies, Christians must walk by faith not by sight. It’s a not a list of do’s and don’ts, it’s a life lived by the Spirit, who guides us, as we seek to give God glory in whatever we do or say. It’s as simple and as hard as that.

So, how do you know when you’ve chosen the way that aligns with God’s will?

Listen for the echoes of his voice.

That’s how my husband, Raouf, described the confirmation we were receiving from so many sources, as we moved forward toward mission service. The year was 1991, and he used the phrase as we prayed together on the day of our appointment as missionaries to Lebanon.

It was the perfect illustration in showing how so many persons and circumstances truly had been echoes of God’s call for our life. Even the difficult times in the process proved to be ways he used to strengthen our faith in him and his plan for us.

During that appointment week, we were so encouraged by many who expressed their excitement in seeing us go to Lebanon. As one missionary couple, the Trimbles, retired after many years of service in that country, they were able to see the Lord provide new workers for the harvest.

Our family’s support was another source of confirmation for us, all the while knowing that many of those appointed with us were suffering due to lack of such support. We counted our blessings for the encouragement given by ours.

Our local churches were more echoes in our lives, as we had not only the support of the church we pastored at the time, but that of my home church and Raouf’s as well. In services in the months prior, all three took time to pray over us and confirm God’s call on our lives.

For the next twenty-five years, the resonance of those echoes of confirmation served as a source of encouragement to help us through the difficult times in service. Just when we needed it most, we’d receive a call, letter or email that reminded us of their prayers and support.

Is God leading you to take a step forward in faith toward service or ministry? If he’s spoken to you through his Word and in prayer, then listen for the echoes of his call through the circumstances of life and in the words of those around you. As they come together, be confident in stepping out to his glory.

Grace and Peace