What’s Your Takeaway?

Each time I attend a conference or a seminar, or listen to a message or a podcast, I always look
for a takeaway.

As I contemplate and anticipate graduating from God’s school in the wilderness of my own
home, I wonder what I’ve learned. I have no idea of the graduation date (much like many
schools and colleges I know of). But, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Will I return to my old normal? Is the new normal here to stay? What is the future normal going
to look like?

Here’s some of things I’ve learned so far:

I’ve learned, or I’m trying to learn, to live for the day, making most of the present. I can’t really
predict into the future.

 “
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to
you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things.
Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (Matthew 6:33-34, NKJV). Look at the added blessings
when we seek first the Kingdom. We shouldn’t be worried or anxious about the future. Each
day contains an ample burden of suffering and problems, while feasting on the blessings
provided.

“As your days, so shall your strength be” (Deuteronomy 33:25, NKJV). God doesn’t provide
today, the strength that is needed for tomorrow, or next week, or next year. He delivers
sufficient strength for today; for now.

I’ve learned it’s prodigious to have a God-vision of your preferred or prophesied future. It
doesn’t change but the methods and ways to accomplish may differ in response to the logistics
or dynamics at hand.

I’ve learned to stop, smell the roses, look at my surroundings, and speak/write to those that will
give me power of speech. Our connections with people are paramount and pivotal.

I’ve learned that He expects me to revive my writing, and that He will speak through it. Look out
world, the Paper Prophet is pondering the present, and penning it!

But, more than that, I’ve learned to stand still, or sit still, or stay still, in solitude and surrender,
not only to see the salvation of the Lord, but to hear and obey His still, small voice.

I’ve learned to make the best decisions possible, with the information available, out of a pure
heart, and a sincere love for people, and leave the results to God. (Thankful to Jim Crawford, a
Sunday school teacher, at New Life St. Louis, who made this point some time ago. It’s stayed
with me. Now, I’ve seen it in action in decision-making again and again).
I’ve learned these things. I’ve implemented them. Now, for them to stand the test of time. Lord,
spare me from falling face-forward into the rut of routine.

What have you learned in the pandemic that you will take with you from day to day?

Talk to me. I’m listening. I’m learning. I’m making a list.