I was in the book of Ezekiel last week. And to be real honest, I found myself saying “huh?” and “what in the world?” a lot. But one thing kept ringing clear even through the difficult sections of the text: God is holy. He. is. holy.
He is completely beyond us. He is in absolute control. He rules and reigns. And when this God says, “I will,” then He will. That thought should do something to us.
When this holy God speaks we then have choice. We can listen and obey or we can choose to go our own way. It’s that simple. But whatever we choose, will have effects. And if we desire His glory to shine on us and through us, then our feet must walk the path of obedience.
So that’s what these feet of mine desire to do.
Just under my identity as His child and my role as a wife, I’m a mama to three young ones. Which means I have a limited amount of writing time. I schedule the weekly hours and He faithfully multiplies my time. But I have a writing project in my lap right now that needs some attention…and prayer.
In my desire to be obedient I’ve asked for Him to guide me in these next few weeks as I complete the project. And through that seeking I’ve sensed the need to lay down the blog for the month of October. *sigh*
I know it’s best, but I love this space. I love meeting with you here. But when He speaks, we have choice: to obey or not.
This project I’m working on is deeply tender to my heart. It pulls back the veil and reveals some of my own scars. So if you think of it, or me, in the next 25 days, I would greatly appreciate your prayers — that He would anoint my words and that He would keep the enemy far from me and my home. (Thank you, thank you!)
Then the Spirit lifted me up, and I heard a great rumbling sound behind me,
“Blessed be the glory of the LORD in His place.” Ezekiel 3:12
Now on the flip side, this is actually the best time of year for me to step aside because 31 days is going on as we speak! 31 days is hosted in October by eight bloggers, including sweet Emily over at Chatting at the Sky. (By the way, have you ordered her book yet?)
Basically a number of bloggers (744 to be exact) have decided to spend the 31 days of October writing on a particular topic. If you go here you can see the community. It really is amazing. So this month there will be much to choose from on the blog front.
OK, I could go on and on but I think I’m starting to avoid the inevitable. I’ll still be hanging out on Facebook and Twitter so if we haven’t yet connected in cyber-social world, I would love for you to come say hello!
So until November 1st — Lord willing — keep pressing into Him, sweet friends.
Fill me, Lord…
What has He prompted you to set aside lately?
How have you seen your own obedience bring blessing?
Anonymous says
I will be praying for you! I will miss seeing you (here)….but know that your obedience to Him will bless others through your return and your project!
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thank you for your prayers. I really do appreciate it. I’ll miss seeing you “here” as well but I still plan on seeing your sweet smile on Twitter. 🙂 Blessings.
Hope Wilbanks says
Lara, there is nothing better than being obedient to His calling. I pray you find direction and strength during your time away. I can only speak for myself, but I’ll still be here when you return. 😉 Love you!
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thank you! It means so much to hear that you will be here when I get back. I really appreciate that, friend.
Teri Johnson says
Lara…I know all too well the writing you’re talking about. I just wrapped up my season of writing the REFINED ME TO THE CORE. There was not much else I could give, BUT to the book. YOU are in my prayers…
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thank you, Teri. Looking forward to meeting you in a few weeks! (You are going to Relevant, right?)
Jill says
I will certainly keep you in my prayers!
I so love your blog and the encouragement it provides. It reminds me I’m not the only one who is being “fine tuned” on a continual basis.
(Oh, those shoes are adorable!)
Look foward to your return!
Lara Gibson Williams says
That refining is continual, isn’t it. Thank you for your sweet words. And yes, those shoes are too adorable! (wish they were mine. 😉
Christine- Fruit in Season says
You are an example for all of us. Follow His leading. Rest when He says rest, press forward in obedience. The blanket of prayer will be gently over you… xoxo
Lara Gibson Williams says
You are dear to me, sweet friend. Thank you for your prayers. 🙂
Johanna Fenton says
Praying for you Lara!
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thanks, Johanna. 🙂
Anonymous says
I will be praying for you! Have already! I know you will be blessed and can’t wait to hear more from you when you are done your sabbatical. Loved getting to chat with you at LCC the other day. Your frankness, honesty and love for the Lord and His family always are an example and encouragement to me!
Lara Gibson Williams says
It was great to see you too, Jen! Thank you. Hope to see you again sometime soon. Much love.
Carey Bailey says
Praying for your journey! With Joy, Carey
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thanks, Carey. Blessings!
Em says
You know I’m praying. I am thankful for His expectant blessings…and I know He has much in “the works” for you & your family. Love you.
Lara Gibson Williams says
You know I love you, sweet friend.
Katie Anderson says
I just love having discovered your cool blog. Am praying for you sista! Good luck with your project.
Lara Gibson Williams says
Thanks, Katie. And thanks for your prayers! Blessings to you, sister-friend, aka sista.
tracie stier-johnson says
i feel your heart and obedience … there is nothing greater than being obedient to Him, His calling and direction. He can’t bless us when things are out of sync. i think we all feel it and we know what’s best to do {when it’s time to focus, or step away, or get direction}, but it takes courage to listen to His Voice. LOVE that you are and i can’t wait to see the blessings that flow from that!
love and prayers!!
Beth Jones says
Praying for you friend!
Sharla K says
I am living this right now, trying to find the balance between my writing and being a mom. The deadlines are looming, but the kids need my attention (and there was no choice yesterday when they came down with the flu!). Trying to balance it is impossible for me until I bring it to God. He is somehow able to create more hours in the day than should be there on the days when I lay it at His feet. On the days that I don’t, there is no hope!
All the best to you in this journey! I hope that you have been blessed with pockets of time and clarity during your blog hiatus!