The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11
I am living out a dream and vision that God has laid out for my life. I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to work in full-time youth ministry in the church for 14 years and counting! I grew up in the church as the daughter of a United Methodist pastor, and I enjoyed being involved and connected in many different areas of ministry. There were many people who loved and encouraged me (and there continue to be these people in my life today) as I discovered God’s love for me. There were also many people in the church who gave me opportunities to grow in my faith and to share my gifts.
During my senior year of high school, as I was making decisions about college and the future that I would step into, I had a calling to be in ministry as my occupation. I loved being a part of our youth and children’s ministries, as well as helping in many other roles in church life. I realized that for quite a while, I had the desire to serve God by serving the church. It was during this stage of looking to my future that I was able to pray and receive peace from God in knowing that this was the vision and direction he was leading me.
I think that peace is a gift from God. It is a gift that He gives us when we are seeking the dreams and visions for our life. It doesn’t mean that all of the steps are lined out right away, or that every step will be easy, but we can find peace. Peace in these decisions helps to give us confidence to step out in faith. I’m able to continue to find peace as I live out this calling of ministry in my life today.
Are you looking to discover the dreams and visions that God has for your life in this moment? Pray for peace. If you are making decisions in your life, pray for peace. I don’t know where your journey may lead you, but I know that God will be with you every step of the way and that His peace can guide and direct you.
“Lord, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us.” Isaiah 26:12
Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministries
