Prepared to Move
by Malcolm Wood
I saw this phrase, ‘Prepared to Move’, as part of an Estate Agents advertisement encouraging readers to sell their houses. Most of us move home at least once in our lifetime, some numerous times. Moving home is generally recognised as one of the most stressful times of our lives. There are many reasons why it becomes necessary to move, family, occupation, education, marriage, finance, or desire for change can all be among reasons why we have to face what for most can be one of the most emotional periods of our lives.
There are not many of us who enjoy change. That is especially true when it comes to moving on from what we find familiar and comfortable. We often feel safe with the status quo and threatened by anything that might disturb that with which we’re familiar. In life generally, and particularly in our spiritual life, we can miss out on so much by not being prepared to move and take that step into the unfamiliar. Such a move requires faith, and it requires courage. But when it’s an act of obedience to the Lord, without doubt, blessing will follow.
The first disciples Peter, Andrew, James and John, as fishermen, were prepared to leave what was familiar to them, their work, their home environment, and their friends, to follow Jesus when He called them (Matthew 4:18-22). What blessing resulted for them as they walked with Jesus for three years and witnessed and participated in the wonderful things He did and heard first hand all the things He said!
A change of location isn’t always necessary for us to move on in the purposes that God has for us. Usually all that’s required is a change of heart, perhaps a more open attitude and acceptance of what God wants us to experience. This may mean using our God-given giftings and abilities in a way we’ve never thought of, or we’ve previously been afraid to develop.
Sadly, over time, we can become complacent, and fear the uncertainties of change. But God has called us into His kingdom to be actively engaged in the works of that kingdom. This doesn`t necessarily mean becoming a great teacher or worship leader, but, being available to Him to act and move as He directs.
Praying, offering a cup of tea, giving a word of encouragement or comfort are some of the many ways in which we can reach out to others, but, at times, it will mean moving out of our comfort zone, as we become servants of the King of kings. Jesus commends those who do such things for doing them ‘as unto him’ (Matthew 25:40).
God`s desire for all of us, and it should be our desire too, is that we move closer and closer to Him. Are we always prepared to do that?
Finally, the greatest move that any of us will make, will be from this life into the next. Are we also prepared for that move? Towards the end of his life, the apostle Paul could say ‘… But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 3: 13-14).
Prayer: Dear Lord, please forgive my complacency at times, and help me by Your Spirit to move on in all that You have for me to do, to experience and to receive from You. Please help me also to be prepared for Your return, or for You to call me home. Amen.
Malcolm Wood and his wife Anna became part of the Ellel family as House Managers at Ellel Grange in 1990. Since then they have been involved with many aspects of the developing Ministry. From 2001 until 2015 they were Directors of Ellel Scotland where they hosted several International Schools and Operation Blairmore and helped pioneer the exciting Creative Inspiration Weeks. They have three sons.
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