So often things in life feel so random. Desires not yet realized appear crazy and seemingly impossible. Hopes are deferred and doors we knock on slam shut or never even budge.
The older I get the more I’m convinced when we’re living for God, surrendered to His purposes, nothing is random. Proverbs 16:9 says, “In his heart a man plans his course but the LORD determines his steps.” So true and so encouraging.
Relationships in particular, may start out small but lead to strategic possibilities. Three in my life come to mind. Two were bright young students I hired as Alumni Director at Oral Roberts University. Both went on to become CFOs and invited me into business opportunities I’ve loved (John Maxwell’s Speakers Bureau thanks Reggie, and Solavei thanks Nathan!)
Five years ago at a small book signing in D.C. I met Charity Wallace who worked for Laura Bush. She took a signed copy of my book to Mrs. Bush and I got a beautiful thank you letter back. No further contact but five years later Charity thought of me for the George and Laura Bush Women’s Initiative which I’m loving being part of as a mentor and workshop leader. We’re heading to Egypt for a week in September, thanks Charity!
What all this means in my opinion, is the need to dream on all cylinders, and experiment in the direction of even random desires. As my dear mentor Carole Hyatt puts it, “Knock on all doors and see which ones open.”
We can hold onto these promises… “The desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.” Prov.13:4. “Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.” I believe this means “give” as in grant, but also “give” as in putting the desire there in the first place.
Life is such an exciting adventure. And nothing is random.
This song from our MSNY service last night inspires me in this direction