A couple of years ago, I sat down with Blair, Steve and a couple of other men in the Men’s Prayer and Bible Study and asked for prayer. I was seeking directions for what God wanted me to do at Shore Vineyard, Safe Harbor and general ministry. Steve had mentioned that I was wrestling with God and not to be surprised if God gives me a new name. I don’t know about a new name, but the Lord did give me a sense of direction and affirmed one of my callings.
Some years earlier, I was given a vision showing a book with some pages containing written materials and blank pages and me writing on a PC. I took this to mean that God was calling me to write for His Kingdom. However, I did not know what to write, where to send them nor did I have it confirmed. One day, Ivan Cistemas, the pastor of La Viña del Mar was over at Isidro’s home for a Bible Study. I was showing Ivan my web site and some of my writings. He said, “This is what God is calling you to do.” At first, I thought Ivan was referring to designing web sites; instead, he was talking about writing and not designing web sites. In time, I did see my error and pursued writing.
Although, there was no Scripture specifically saying, “Barry, be a writer!” or “Write and help at Safe Harbor!”; the Bible does say God will direct my path, order my steps and show me the way to go: Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 16:9, Psalm 37:23 and Proverbs 20:24. For me, I had to pray, seek His directions, step out in faith and try. Either God will directly say a door is open or I have to attempt to open the door. If a door is closed then it’s time to try another door. So far, I have written a few stories for the bulletin and newsletter. I am also stepping out of my comfort zone by attempting to write a story for the Guidepost, a national Christian magazine.
Be assured that God does have a purpose and a plan for our lives. He does not make mistakes and He doesn’t make junk. Here is a familiar verse, courtesy of the Message.
“I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” (Jeremiah 29:11)”
