“If you have a big question mark hanging out in your soul, maybe one that has to do with faith, vocation, or relationships, perhaps your next right thing is to take a break from your frantic search for answers and look around for arrows instead.”- Emily P. Freeman
Emily P. Freeman concludes Chapter 5 of The Next Right Thing as she notes that logic and limits often stifle longing. And longing represents the key to our growth. Yet, as Ann Patchett writes in What Now?, “Sometimes not having any idea where we’re going works out better than we could possibly have imagined.”
Furthermore, it’s important that you can answer the question What do you really want? While answering that question can also be scary, it’s crucial to explore the answer to that question in the presence of God. In addition, your time of waiting and listening as well as not knowing what’s coming next helps shape your character. Consequently, you find yourself less afraid of the next what now season to come.
In conclusion, Emily offers advice on what to do when you catch a tiny glimpse of the future. The author encourages:
“When you catch a tiny glimpse of the future, be sure not to smother it with your own agenda. Let it breathe. Let it grow at a healthy pace. Admit it’s both delightful and terrifying. As you take your next right step today, trust that God won’t let you miss your own future.”
So, as you do the next right thing in front of you, no matter how big or small, remember to pay attention not only to what’s happening on the outside. Look for what’s moving on the inside.”
Today’s question: What big question mark hangs out in your soul? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The morrow – taking thought wastes time”
