ECCLESIASTES 10:10

If the axe is dull and he does not sharpen its edge, then he must exert more strength; but wisdom [to sharpen the axe] helps him succeed [with less effort]. (AMP)

TO PONDER:

When I moved overseas, I thought I had all my “ducks in a row” and my “axe” had been finely honed.  Little did I know, I would need all the strength and wisdom I had, plus a lot more.  Working with the underground church in a communist country was a real eye opener and an interesting journey in itself. Pastors were still being threatened and bullied, and put under house arrest, home groups were often raided if the lookout missed the “surprise visitors,” and most of the church buildings had been confiscated by the time I was there.  In fact, just before I arrived the State Super had been put under house arrest. Having the title of Assistant Head I had the privilege of walking alongside this diverse group of people who were still wary of outsiders, and a female to boot. My job was to assist in setting up an English learning centre, help with choosing a curriculum, and to vet the English teachers who applied for a position, to liaise between the English and local teachers to make for a happy atmosphere.  

I was ready, because this is where I was meant to be and where I had been sent.  I knew God had it all in hand, but I also knew there would be lots of growing pains. Time was just one of the things I had to adjust too … their time is elastic … they say 10am and it could be 3pm before they would turn up.  Doing this walk alongside these beautiful people, learning and adjusting to their ways, watching and listening, and not always agreeing to the way things were done, was an experience worth going through. Needless to say, my “axe” had to be sharpened daily. In fact, this was a time of letting go of my expectations and letting God sharpen my “axe” and giving me that strength and wisdom where he guided me through this journey.  Without Him I would never have finished that race and come out of it knowing that through Him, I had made an impact in the lives of many, not only in the centre but out in the community. Seeds had been planted, and someone else would come along after me to water them … 

 Those who neglect to prepare adequately for their responsibilities, whether through lack of planning or using inadequate tools expose themselves to potential harm and failure. God has given you all the tools you need, using them well and keeping them honed and sharp is the wise way to go.

PRAYER:  My Heavenly Father, I have been so blessed in my journey with you beside me.  I thank you that it's never to late to seek your wisdom.  I pray that you show me how to seek you first and shower me with your blessings in Jesus name. Amen

Today's devotion written by Noeline Brock (Danny's mum), LifeWay Online.