Distractions

If you have been reading this blog for a little while, you know that I've been intently praying about the calling on my heart (music), and that God has been coming through in amazing ways (such as getting me a free keyboard). One of the more specific requests that I voiced to God was a clear guidance about the next step I need to take in order for this ministry to start benefiting others. Of course, He has been faithful, and the answer I got was to legibly write down what up to this point I only have on loose pieces of paper and hummed into a recorder (yes, I DID need an answer from God for something this obvious...) This is a task that I am fully equipped for -- both in education and technology. What apparently I'm lacking is dedication and discipline to just sit down and write! Or that's what I thought.

As soon as I decided that this needs to happen, the enemy started to scheme. And it took me a little while to figure out that all the wonderful things happening in my life in reality aren't wonderful at all!!! All of a sudden I started to get very appealing proposals for things to keep me busy. And by "appealing" I mean deals like translating a very interesting book. I (clearly) have a passion for all things that have to do with writing, editing, and translating. Working with an author who has wit, in a addition to a strong point that I agree with, would have been a dream come true. But the Holy Spirit whispered that I need to stay away and focus on music instead.

This is just one example of the kinds of things that have been happening in my life. The reason I finally recognized that they are distractions rather than opportunities was yet another sermon from pastor Mark Driscoll. He talked about how there's a million of good things we could be doing. But they are not the BEST for us to do. And we need to learn to focus on the ministry or calling that God has placed us into, instead of trying to do everything, be everywhere, and talk to everyone

The result of all the distractions in my life (some of which I admit that I easily gave into) is that, since two months ago that God has told me exactly what to do, I have written down a total of three songs. Laughable. Although I am always tempted to excuse myself and say that three is better than none. But the thing is that I also heard God tell me that we are given a limited amount of time for a reason. That message was very random at the time, but now I see how it applies. I'm living on my own now. And I'm the manager of my time -- probably not forever and maybe even not for long. I need to use the time I have to get to know God more and fulfill the purpose that He has for my life and for my ministry.

If you would like to pray for me, please ask for discernment to distinguish between distractions and opportunities, for strength to tactfully combat distractions, and for discipline to actually sit down and write. I'm thankful for the time and tools God has given me to focus on writing down the songs He keeps placing in my heart. I don't want to squander those blessings.