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Preparation

There are periods of preparation in our lives. Sometimes it is formal preparation, as in higher education, but often it is our life experiences that shape us for our call. I know at times my life is but a daily grind, and I find it easy to get caught up with going through the motions, but I need to remember that everything I face today is opportunity for growth. Even if I'm in the most imperfect situation, my time does not go wasted. Somehow in the future, what I've learned today and have passed on, will make a difference to someone, even if it's me.

That's why I love these old, old stories of unlikely characters becoming great, like Moses, Joseph, Mordecai, Esther, and now Daniel. They all start out as captured people who end up capturing the hearts and wills of those who are their captives. But they do that with great patience, with intentions to serve their God first and then to serve others. They live transparent lives, not afraid to learn the ways of their new lands; they allow themselves to be observed and tested in their ways of life, they always are accountable. Preparation gives them time to live and show God's grace. . .

"In every age, God is looking for those whom He can use."
(J. F. Walvoord, 1971)


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