by Stephanie K Adams
Real Women Ministries

Girls, I’m just not called to do it ALL.  And neither are you.  Whew, isn’t that a relief.  Now that we have that out of the way, let’s refocus on GOD and what HIS calling is for our lives. 

We can spend too much time and energy doing some very good things, but if it’s not what God called us to, we aren’t being obedient.

*Ouch* 

Hey, sometimes the truth hurts.  But it also sets you free. (Or so I’ve read…hint, John 8:31-32)

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

Jesus tells us we will know the truth but only if we abide in His Word and become His disciple. 

Disciple means to follow Jesus.  And if I’m a disciple following Him, then I don’t have time for all that other stuff that He didn’t ask of me.

I can set it down without guilt, or hesitation, or even the fear of missing out. 

Again…*Ouch*

See, I will join all kinds of things because I’m afraid I’ll miss out on something good.

Facebook groups
Book launches
Conferences
Study groups

Maybe for you it isn’t those things.  Maybe for you it’s the fear of missing out on something else.

Whatever it is that causes us to feel like we will miss out if we aren’t included, ends up becoming the thing that enslaves us to overwhelmed schedules, frustration, and guilt.

We become bound to sin…of being disobedient.  When we allow our fear of missing out to determine our path we have just taken the first step into bondage.

Freedom only comes when we are obedient to Christ. 

And the real truth is, we don’t miss out on one single good thing from the Father when we follow after Him.  We receive the fullness of His blessing when we are walking step-in-step with Him. 

Our obedience to only do those things He is asking of us will also bring a sense of relief in our packed schedules.  We will be able to breath easier and enjoy life much more when we spend our energy in the right places.

STUDY QUESTIONS:

• Read John 8:31-38
• What do you think it means to abide in God’s word?  How can we do that?
• In verse 34 Jesus says “everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin”.  What do you think it means to “practice” sin?  How do you think sin enslaves?
• What are some other ways that we disobey God – often without realizing it?
• Spend time in prayer asking God to show you ways in which you have taken on too much.  Are there tasks you can take off your list?  Are there things He is asking you to do that need your attention?

Jesus, help me to put down all the things you haven’t ask me to do and follow you.  Help me to overcome my feelings of missing out just because I’m not doing the things everyone else seems to be doing.  Lord, forgive me when I’ve taken on burdens you never intended me to carry.  Help me to focus on you and complete the tasks you ask of me.  In Jesus name, Amen.