Stepping Out in Faith
When my husband's company hinted he might need to work on-call—including nights and weekends—he made it clear he would resign if it became mandatory. For 35 years, Brian had faithfully worked for this company while also using his God-given gifts to serve in our church's audio/visual department and youth ministry. When the company made on-call work mandatory, Brian handed in his notice, trusting the Lord would provide despite the uncertainty.
Stepping out in faith is never easy, but we were anchored by God’s promises: “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is the one who will go with you; He will not leave or abandon you” (Deuteronomy 31:6 CSB) and “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will strengthen you; I will help you…” (Isaiah 41:10 CSB).
Our situation brought to mind Ruth, who left everything to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, to Israel. As widows, they faced great vulnerability and poverty. Yet, God provided by directing Ruth to glean in Boaz’s field, protecting her and ultimately blessing her with a kinsman redeemer.
Similarly, God’s provision for our family defied logic. Initially, we calculated we could sustain ourselves for nine weeks. Instead, God multiplied our resources and sustained us for nine months by providing side jobs for Brian. Eventually, he found a part-time job that met our needs and allowed him to serve at our church’s food pantry, bringing him great joy.
When we are in God’s will, He sustains us in ways we cannot imagine. For Ruth, God provided security and a new husband. For us, He gave financial stability and renewed joy as we continued to serve Him while we walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7).
We may not know what the journey holds when we step out in faith, but we can trust God’s promise in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” God’s provision is always faithful, and His plans are always good.
Questions for Reflection:
1. What gifts has God given you to use for His glory?
2. Is God calling you to step out in faith to use them more fully? What would this step of faith look like?
