step 3: start walking I walk in faith
By this point, you are living outside the boat and walking on the water, eyes fixed on Jesus and the mission He has for you. Here are some tips to help you as you begin utilizing the skills, thoughts, ideas, and dreams God is calling you to.
1. Don’t let the world hold you back
Whatever task, thought, or dream God has given you, recognize you might receive criticism. Some people will support you 1000% but others will scoff. Don’t let the naysayers stop you from living out what God has called you to do. (What if Noah had given up because of the snickering?)
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.” – Philippians 1:27-30
2. Be ready for the enemy
Once you decide to step forward, you will immediately be on Satan’s radar and he will try everything to keep you from succeeding. You might find yourself extra busy so that you don’t have time to devote to your special project, or your idea might seem to start falling apart, etc. Stay focused and remember God already has the Victory so don’t let the small inconveniences and frustrations keep you from realizing the blessing God has for you, and the blessing that others will receive through the work He’s given you to do.
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11
3. Expect the unexpected
The idea, task, thought, or dream God has called you to is for a reason and it might not be what you think it is. When you take a step forward, you are embarking on a spiritual journey. God wants to teach you something, draw you closer to Him, and use your gifts and abilities to help others. The specific road you walk will be filled with twists and turns. Be ready for surprises and challenges, trust in God at all times, and know that He is with you always and constantly working.
“‘You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,’ declares the Lord.”
– Jeremiah 29:13-14
4. Believe God will equip you
Don’t be surprised if you feel completely unprepared, unskilled, or even afraid of the idea, skill, thought, or dream God has called you. You need to believe 100% that God is faithful and will equip you for every work He has called you to, and by the power of the Holy Spirit, you have been given all the tools you need.
“Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.”
– Hebrews 13:20-21
5. Remember God has called you for His purpose
As people, it’s easy to be swayed and lose sight of what we’re doing. This dream God has called you to is for His purpose, His Kingdom. Every second along the journey provides an opportunity to share your experiences with the people you come in contact with: family, friends, acquaintances, and complete strangers. At every moment, give all the glory to God and don’t shy away from sharing the work He is doing. Remember, God wants to reveal something to you and use you in this process.
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11
Practical Tools
The most important part of this step is to really spend time on your relationship with God. It’s easy to get distracted when you’re “in the zone” and accomplishing the task that God has given you.
- Schedule a Sabbath Day or Rest Day to recharge your batteries and stay connected to the source of your strength. Spend this day doing fun or restful activities that draw you closer to God. Plan your week so that the shopping, housework and other necessary tasks are taken care of (unless you find one of them relaxing!).
- Keep practicing spiritual disciplines like prayer, journaling, etc.
- Pray, and pray again.
These are just a few ideas!