God’s Purpose in Every Season
Written by Irene Warnock | 5th October 2024
Like so many people I have a favourite Bible passage, Psalm 139. I love the fact that I’m not unexpected, that God had planned and designed me and that the days of my life were all prepared before I had even lived one day.
In Revelation it says that God created us for his pleasure. And in Jeremiah 29 v 11 it says “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”.
I’ve just celebrated a really BIG birthday and whilst I would always rather look forward than back, it did make me think about all that had happened in that time.
Where has my life taken me; can I see a clear path lit by God?
When I was very little my Mum and Dad sent my sister and I to Sunday school, my sister soon moved on, but I loved it and just stayed. At first my lovely Dad took me each week and when I was older; I went on my bike and eventually I was old enough to go on the bus and I started joining my Nan at the Salvation Army. I soon made a commitment and become a Salvationist; I love the social action that goes hand in hand with faith that the Salvation Army represents. At 17 years old I thought I should be there forever and that I could become a full-time officer. But then I got scared and did a U turn and joined the RAF!
Looking back, I wonder was the SA my calling and I ignored it or was the different path I took meant to be? Although I missed the opportunity for full time social service, over the years I have had lots of opportunities to be involved. As an RAF wife I cared for lots of families who needed support. We moved so often - 14 houses in our first 21 years of marriage - I met lots of people from all walks of life, lived all over the place and had many different voluntary and paid jobs. So many experiences that I brought to our life.
After our time in the RAF it was time for me to follow another path, we joined an amazing Church where we all flourished. We emersed ourselves in supporting the local area, at New Wine, Greenbelt and Spring Harvest my faith grew. New opportunities came along for me, I was able to raise my hand when there was a need I thought I could help with, and sometimes, when I didn’t know anything but thought I could ‘give it a go’.
Over time in the excellent RISEconnect emails we have heard amazing stories of courage in adversity, where God has brought about miraculous change.
But for many, if not most of us that is not the case, my story if much more mundane, much more common but it is surely just as miraculous. We worship an amazing God, everything he does is amazing simply because he is God.
Looking back, I can see God’s hand in the doors that opened. Jobs that came along, friendships we formed, houses we lived in. In 2019 I was considering retirement. I didn’t really want to retire, I loved working. I’m not a conference person, I don’t really like meetings, I like doing ‘stuff’ not talking about it. But somehow, I found myself at an education conference, the first in about 10+ years. Part of the event was the launch of a new Department of Education initiative to help schools in financial difficulties; it was right up my street and I could choose when and how much I worked; perfect for retirement. I’m still doing the role now and I really enjoy it. How did I find myself in the right place at the right time? The job is secular but it was perfect for me; it enabled me to retire with a happy heart, and do something helpful; I think God is interested in every bit of our lives.
I think Psalm 139 has given me courage, courage to step out and try things, to step up when there are things to do and to have confidence in the person I am. I don’t think God makes mistakes; I am as I am for a reason. Of course, I sometimes get it wrong but God is a forgiving God and I believe he loves us to try.
I’ve learned to listen over the years and be conscious of my thoughts, people who have suddenly come to mind who, when I call, are in need of a friend or a kind word. People and situations that I feel called to pray about. Social action is still important to me, I still have lots to give and feel frustrated when things take time. Whilst I know that God’s timing is perfect, I also know that God made me to ‘hustle’.
There are many people around the local area who don’t know anything of God or the stories of Jesus, there are many children in the surrounding area who don’t hear God’s name in any way other than blasphemously. I believe we are called to share the amazing love of Jesus with as many as we can. Who will they call upon in times of trouble or happiness if they don’t know? Finding a way to reach them is so important.
So, if any of my story resonates with you, please feel encouraged that you have been chosen by God, that he has and will continue to equip you for his service and that he made you for his pleasure, you are already very special.
LET’S DO THIS
Song for reflection. Psalm 139 (Far too wonderful) Shane and Shane
From Irene’s blog, here are some key points to reflect on:
God’s Purpose in Every Season: Irene's journey highlights how God’s plan unfolds over time, even through unexpected twists and turns.
Reflect on how God has guided you through different stages of your life, even when your path seemed unclear or different from what you initially expected.
Stepping Out in Faith: Irene demonstrates the courage to try new things, trusting that God doesn’t make mistakes.
Reflect on moments where you have stepped out in faith, even in uncertainty, and has led to growth, new opportunities, and a deeper understanding of God’s will.
Social Action as an Expression of Faith: Throughout her life, Irene has been committed to serving others, believing that social action is a vital part of living out her faith.
Reflect on how your own service to others, no matter how small, can be a meaningful expression of God’s love and purpose in the world, and pray is there anything you would like to show me how I can bless others around me.