Back in February, I stepped into what I thought was a temporary position (no more than two months) at my husband’s office. I was nervous because I didn’t know if I would be more help or hindrance. Running the front desk at a busy chiropractic practice wasn’t exactly one of my goals in life, nor did I think I’d be qualified for it. However, I did feel a deep sense of joy and certainty that God was doing something big there. I just didn’t think I’d be an active part of whatever it was.
If you are a subscriber to my blog posts, you know that this is the first I’ve written in over six months. The temporary position didn’t turn out to be temporary—God had another plan all along. Had I known that from the beginning, I doubt I’d have been so quick to volunteer my services. This is why God only gives us a small glimpse, rather than the whole picture. However, that deep sense of joy and certainty was not misplaced—God has definitely been at work in my husband’s practice.
These last several months have been one of the most difficult and the most joyous seasons I’ve been through. When the Lord decides to purge and refine, there is always collateral damage. Challenging circumstances define who we are—or Whose we are. What I’ve learned in the last six months:
- There is complete joy when serving others that we cannot receive when serving ourselves.
- We don’t learn much worth knowing in isolation.
- Emotionally unhealthy people will always make excuses and/or seek a way to blame others for their failures.
- Payroll taxes aren’t as complicated as they seem.
- It’s important to admit when you don’t know something, and then be willing to hire competent people to teach you.
- If you’re a good steward of the resources God gives you, He will continue to give you good resources.
- Working long days with your spouse can actually be fun and fulfilling.
- Don’t take yourself too seriously.
- It is possible to connect with everyone you meet. It just might take a little longer with some than others.
- Don’t give up on people even when they’ve given up on you.
- Dreams don’t necessarily die; they just get put on the back burner until God’s perfect timing.
- A smile and a kind word have the power to change a person’s day—be it the giver or the receiver.
- God is the author of your dreams—trust Him to use them in ways that far exceed your expectations.
- Attitude matters.
- True character reveals itself over time.
And last, but certainly not least, when we trust in God, He is faithful to be trustworthy.
Comments 1
Jennie, it is great hearing from you, even on your blog. I am glad you are finding happiness in Chris’ practice. It is amazing what you learn in the different areas that you work in. I hope your kids are also doing well. I would love to talk to you on the phone whenever you have some time. I love you always,
Barbie