Discernment has been the word of the New Year. Over and over again I feel led to be discerning in what to study and write, in which talks to give and how many each year, in which school to send our children to and where to live and, and, and... Yes, the call to be discerning has been like an anthem in my thought life. And yet, I confess, I haven't felt quite up to the challenge.

And so I found myself praying, simply this: "Dear God, I know that you want me to be wise and discerning, to know your will and to make the right choices, but I don't think I'm able to yet. I really do want what you would have for us and not what I want, so I was hoping, Lord, that you might make it all abundantly clear for us. Shut doors, open doors and make it real easy to know what to do and where to go, if you would."

Within 24 hours two speaking engagements I'd committed to let me know they suddenly felt God leading them in another direction, Matt's job description suddenly changed into something very exciting, and many other questions miraculously seemed quite clear.

So today I boast that God doesn't mind speaking clearly and plainly to this handmaid. He's not a sneaky or elusive God for the sake of being so. He desires to grow our faith as we often are called to follow Him blindly. But above all He desires a heart that longs for His way and His will. Maybe one day I'll have Spiritual eyes to see and discern in more esoteric ways, but for now I'll simply call out with the faith of a child. And joyfully celebrate the answers He gives.

Another way He's been guiding me in this first month of 2011, has been with inspiration. Instead of taking on lots of speaking engagements, I just want to write, write, write! It's thrilling to be learning as I pen each page. I've loved the time I've spent in the Scriptures and in prayer, as well as the jaunts from my bed to the computer when inspiration comes upon me at night. It's been a lot of fun to say the least.

I imagine there is always a deep sense of joy when we are doing the work God laid out for us to do. Now the work may not always been fun, and there will likely be opposition along the road, but the deep sense of joy that comes from being in His will and doing what we were created for... this I pray remains.