“I believed He was calling me to other ministry settings, yet He has led me to write, opening the door to tell the stories of what God is doing around the world.”
Read about how Fiona Murray’s love for writing stories led her to leading Communications for SIM NZ.
The human heart tells us a lot; it lets us know when to move forward and take action; it warns us when to hesitate and simply wait a little longer; or it simply tells us to stop and go the other way.
As our faith grows, we learn to discern God’s voice in the desires, convictions, and promptings He places within our hearts. This is not just in the big things, but in the little things too.
I recently had a picture of the Lord asking me to try opening a door. To actually take the handle of the door in my own hands and turn it. Yet He told me that it would be Him to actually push or pull it open. That action would not be mine.
‘Man plans his steps, but the Lord determines his course.’ Proverbs 16:9
I have experienced this a number of times in my own life. Plans to serve in mission abroad or here at home have been hindered or come to a complete standstill. I have wrestled with many questions and emotions in my heart.
Yet through it all, I sensed God calling me to write, to pick up my pen and share what He was placing on my heart. That He would use this gift of mine, but I would have to wait for the right timing.
To listen to my heart and be directed by the opening and closing of doors.
I honestly didn’t think I was that great at writing, yet through the encouragement of other writers, He has shown me otherwise.
More than four years later, I can look back and see the hand of God on how He has used me. I believed He was calling me to other ministry settings, yet He has led me to write, opening the door to tell the stories of what God is doing around the world.
I have met other mission storytellers from whom I have learnt so much. I know that my stories have been utilised in other corners of the globe, and I am encouraged that God can use me in this way.
I am learning to become a ‘kingdom’ journalist – something that I would have never dreamed of. In fact, I am qualified as a teacher, not as a journalist. Yet here, the Lord has placed me in a role where my love of writing can flourish and take shape.
So, pause for a moment and think: What is speaking to your heart right now? What doors have opened for you? What doors have firmly closed? More importantly, what is that unique strength of yours that God can use for His glory? How might He use it, perhaps in ways you have never imagined, to serve His kingdom and participate in His mission to the world?
Global mission is strengthened by people with a wide range of skills and experiences. Some go, some send, some teach, some create, some care for others, and some tell the stories of what God is doing. Each plays a part in God’s greater mission.
How could God be inviting you to make the most of the talents He’s given you? Talk to one of our mission coaches – contact us today.
