Dolly Mink: Years of experience in Christian leadership and service have given Dolly a unique perspective, and she is eager to share her observations, insights, and words of encouragement in a way that honors her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Dolly serves on the Women’s Ministry Leadership Team at River Oak Church in Chesapeake and is the Women’s Ministry coordinator for the SBCV.
This morning, my pastor talked about how the Apostle Paul lived and served “in the moment.” How he remembered who he was as Saul but didn’t camp out there—he lived to serve and lead others to the Savior Who got his attention on the road to Damascus. Paul (then Saul) was paying attention to the wrong thing as he was heading to persecute followers of the Way (the early Church). His mind was on destroying every follower of Jesus (Acts 9:1-19). But then the risen Christ called his name, and his life was changed forever. Jesus got his attention.
What about you? Are you heading toward something that God wants to prevent you from? Are you sitting on the sidelines letting the opportunities He has for you pass you by? Are you just flat-out ignoring Him? I’ve been there, Sister. Trust me—there is no place you can go to hide from God. And running from Him is futile.
So, instead of spending life on the bench…
Pray. Confess your sin to Him. If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Savior, if you’ve never acknowledged Him as the Lord of your life, do it now. There is nothing you can do that will cleanse you enough to be able to be in the presence of a holy God. Jesus did that for you (John 14:6).
Turn everything over to Him, and you will be saved from an eternity apart from God. In addition, a great life on earth awaits you as a believer! No, your life won’t be problem free, but you will have an amazing Helper who loves you unconditionally.
Pay Attention. Once you confess your belief in Jesus, unite with a healthy, Christ-centered church. You’ll find a list for some Virginia churches here. Attend a new member class (even if you’re not ready to join). You’ll learn a lot about the church and the pastor, and you’ll meet new people as well. Pay attention to how the Holy Spirit will be working in your life; He will place people in your path for reasons. Get to know them and look for the fruit in their lives. Click the word “fruit” to see what I mean.
Participate. As you grow in your relationship with the Lord, He will lead you to areas where you can serve Him. Do it! It’s what we are designed to do! God has prepared work specifically for you and, believe me, it will be the most rewarding work you’ll ever do (Ephesians 2:10).
It is my prayer that as you grow in your relationship with God, you will shine brightly and lead others to know Him as well. God bless you!