James and I once pastored a very small congregation in Raymondville, Texas. I worked as a substitute teacher to supplement our salary from the church. One day the principal of an elementary school asked me to consider an open position for a full-time teacher of migrant children. The hours were longer than the usual teacher and the salary less. I needed the job, so agreed to an interview. When I returned home, James asked me how the meeting went. I replied, "I accepted the job, but I feel like crying." I couldn't explain my sad emotions that day. I should have been happy that I had a new job. The salary was more than I made as a substitute teacher. Why wasn't I thrilled?
My wise and perceptive husband immediately knew my feeling of blueness was an indicator that I was making a mistake by taking this job. If this position were God's will, I would feel very good, even excited, about it. He suggested I call the principal and tell her I could not take the class. I couldn't get to the phone fast enough! Afterward, I had a big smile on my face and peace reigned again in my heart.
Now for the rest of the story: A few days later this same principal called me and said, "Mrs. Fields, one of my teachers has just resigned to give birth to her baby, and will not be able to finish out the school year. Would you be interested in her job?" The principal continued to tell me the class schedule was regular school hours and the salary was much higher than the other job I turned down! I felt ecstatic about this and immediately accepted her offer.
I learned a valuable lesson through this life experience. I understood why I felt disturbed about the first job. The Holy Spirit in me knew a better job would soon be available, though the principal didn't even know it. God knows all things past, present and future. He wanted to favor his daughter with the better of two positions.
1 Corinthians 6:17 declares, "But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with him in spirit." When we are one with Christ, his emotion of peace will fill our hearts when our choices align with his superior purpose. Also the apostle Paul teaches us in Colossians 3:15: "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts." We will never go wrong following the dependable guidelines of our Prince of Peace. He must love us a lot!
Love,
Dee
Prayer: "Dear Father, thank you for giving us your peace. When our hearts are troubled, help us not to be afraid. Give us faith to trust your Holy Spirit to guide us always by your Word and the peace you instill in our hearts. We ask the fruit of your Spirit to always be evident in us."
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