Where He Leads

Many of my friends know the past few years have been a challenging experience.  After more than fifteen successful years in my own business, things came to a screeching halt.  I’m thankful that business is finally getting back to normal.  But the desert experience has changed me, hopefully for the better.

In February, 2011, I began to write this blog without really knowing what direction it would take.  My first post was titled “Bring It”, and I related my increased intensity in my workout routine to my need to go deeper in my relationship with God.  I began to write about my experiences in life.  As I continued to write, my focus centered more and more on the things that I have learned about God along the way.  It has been a great encouragement to me to share my thoughts, and I hope I have encouraged others as well.

During the past several years, Cheri and I have been involved in leading small groups, and during the past two years we’ve led a few Starting Point groups at North Point Community Church.  Starting Point is an eight week small group environment where those who have questions about the Christian faith can engage in a conversation about what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ.  I’ve been challenged to face questions that I can’t answer and to share what I know with others who are seeking or are new believers in Christ. 

As I’ve negotiated the peaks and valleys of the past few years, my faith has been challenged.  I’ve had periods of spiritual growth and periods of stagnation and discouragement.  Through it all, God has kept his hand on me and never let me go.  As I’ve continued to write (although my frequency has declined), read, pray and serve, I’ve felt the need to deepen my understanding of God and his Word. 

A few weeks ago I decided to follow God’s prompting, and I submitted an application for acceptance at Dallas Theological Seminary.  I immediately experienced an onslaught of doubt and apprehension about moving forward.  My business has increased and I don’t know how much time I’ll have to study.  College football season is my favorite time of year and I won’t be able to devote an entire weekend to watching football.  I was never a stellar student and the thought of sitting through lectures doesn’t really excite me.  But this morning I received notice that I’ve been accepted, and I’ll begin taking online courses in the fall. 

I don’t anticipate a career change.  I simply want to be better equipped to write with authority and to lead effectively.  I ask that my friends will keep me in their prayers as I venture into this new experience.  I’m not sure what to expect, but I’m trusting in God to lead me.  Where He leads me, I will follow.