The Dreaded Question - Encouragement Café - May 12, 2014

The Dreaded Question

Café Menu for Monday, May 12, 2014

Today’s Special is: What Do You Do?

Carefully prepared just for you by your friend, Jill Beran

Main Ingredient:

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work.”

– John 4:34 NIV

Entrée:

“I teach school, coach basketball and impact the future generation.” For five years, this was my answer when I was asked, “What do you do?” At the time the question was not a big deal, but 11 years ago when my first child was born this all changed! Those four little words quickly became a dreaded question.

Initially, I found myself answering, “I just stay home.” Or, “I’m just a mom.” Thankfully, I realized there is no such thing as just a mom, but still I didn’t answer the question with confidence. Instead I’d find myself prefacing my new role with words like, “I use to teach school, but now…”

Time went on and as I lived out my new role, my faith continued to grow. I realized I often found my identity in the roles I played and work I did. I started to understand being a mom was an important job and a big responsibility. Staying home was not something to be ashamed of. I also learned that what I do is not who I am. Friend, we can’t let our positions, or lack thereof, define us.

If “What do you do?” is a question you dread, may I encourage you with Jesus’ words from John 4:34. Jesus says, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work.” Jesus wasn’t concerned with being a teacher and He did not dwell on His job status. Instead, He focused on the work God sent Him to do. I pray you and I will do the same! Then when our time here is done, we can echo Jesus’ words from John 17:4, “I have brought You glory on earth by finishing the work You gave me to do.”

Take Out:

Today take some time and thank God for the role He’s given you to play. Ask Him to remind you of the blessings you enjoy as you do the work He’s called you to. Make a list of opportunities you have as you walk the road He has you on.

Dessert:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that I am more than the jobs I do or the titles I have. Continue to help me finding my identity in You. Help me walk in Your ways and do the work You created me to do. Instead of dreading the questions, help me embrace the opportunity to converse and share with others what You are doing in my life. Father, it is a privilege to be a mom. Help me be the one my children need. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

© 2014 by Jill Beran. All rights reserved.

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