There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. (Ezek. 34:14)
Expanded Passage: Ezekiel 34:13-14
My husband, Matt, and I planted a church in 2020. Honestly, planting a church was something I had said that I never wanted to do. I was afraid that it would be hard and painful and exhausting. The truth is, it is all those things, but it is also so much more.
Looking back on the path that led us to church planting, I now realize that I didn’t believe that God’s best for my life would involve something that I was so scared of. I didn’t see how the challenges could be good. I couldn’t fathom the blessings that might be ahead for me, my family, and our community.
The prophet Ezekiel said that God’s desire is to give his flock good and rich pasture. This is his heart for his people. He wants the best for us, but too often we think that we know what best really means. Our definition of best and God’s definition of best are usually quite different.
I’m so grateful that I decided to obey God and follow where he was calling me. As it turns out, his best for my life is so much more beautiful and life-giving than I had ever imagined. I’m so glad I get to experience his best instead of settling for my own ideal. His way is always so much better.
Reflect on where you have seen God give you his best.
Deborah Rhodes is colead pastor of Parkside Church in Greenville, S.C. She is passionate about studying and teaching God’s Word.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
