“When we understand crises and how God uses them in our lives, we’re less prone to make ourselves victims. Instead, we appreciate how these crises are used to make us more fulfilled and to bring us into our larger story.”- Os Hillman
In Chapter 8 (“Stage 1: Recruitment”) of The Joseph Calling, Os Hillman notes that often a circumstance ushers leaders into the larger story of their lives. Also, they didn’t choose this circumstance. Yet, God rooted it in their unique purpose. Furthermore, only God determines when the time is right. No human being can force the timetable. Mr. Hillman summarizes:
“There is usually some type of kairos moment or crises of belief in the life of one on whom God has place an extraordinary call. Every call from God is extraordinary . . . . We may not affect the masses, but we are all called to a unique assignment from God.”
Put another way, personal crises function as the front door to discovering God’s larger story for us. however, Os observes, those who fulfill the larger story of their lives rarely seek to do that. Instead, a crises initiates the process.
And sometimes, Os states, we realize we’ve been born for a specific assignment. As a result, we understand God’s placed us into the time and space of His choosing. For He intends to use us for a significant purpose He wants to accomplish on earth.
However, at times we shy away from situations ripe for our involvement. Perhaps, Mr. Hillman suggests, we:
- think the situation conflicts with our talents
- possibly fear making a mistake
- even fear failure itself
The psalmist reminds us:
“For you formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb. I will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”- Psalm 139:13 (NKJV)
Today’s question: What helps you understand crises and how God uses them? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Surrender your will to Jesus”
