WORK (part 1): walking on air

Do not let this book of the law depart from your mouth. Meditate on it day and night, so that you will be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. ~ Joshua 1:9-10, NIV

On December 15, 2002, Jesus handed my wretched life back to me on a glorious platter for the ultimate do-over.

Commitment to his cause was not an option. I dove headfirst into an all-consuming ministry and gave the first and best of everything I had to him—including my time—for almost eight years. Meanwhile, my flourishing illustration business suffered for lack of attention. It was a sacrifice worth making. I was called to do it, without a doubt. My family always had enough to get by. One way or another, God always provided. He takes care of his own. (Did I mention that my business suffered? In every way possible. And how.)

Eventually my husband asked me to step down from my various volunteer leadership positions and focus on making money again, a change I was happy to make. By then, however, the market had crashed. Artists are expendable in a bad economy, but I am scrappy, and God is still my provider.

Recently, my man took a wonderful new job in a far-away city, for a lot less pay. The decision was much prayed-over, healthy, and mutual. As a result, we are moving, and there is more financial pressure on me than ever before. But why should I worry? Ultimately, the pressure is on God. He knows what I need, both to contribute to our family's finances, and to ease my husband's mind.

Will my Provider bless my work as an artist, or lead me down a different path? Stay tuned. As soon as I know, you'll know.

I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me. God, don't let me down! ~ Psalm 119:31, The Message


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