The Only Way to Get to “Next” is to Master “Now”
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Friend, maybe you’re like me. We spend a lot of time fantasizing about our “next” season. Have you ever said or thought any of these things?
- “When I land that next book contract, then I will really step up my leadership.”
- “When caregiving for elderly family members gets a little easier, then I will really work on getting my schedule under control.”
- “When I get a bigger speaking platform, then I will really prepare my conference messages with excellence.”
- “When my ten kids are older and the homeschooling years are behind me, then I will finally go back to finish that college degree.”
We postpone our calling because we are waiting for an ideal (and quiet) season to arrive. But honestly, will it ever really come?
Scripture reminds us to carefully number our days so we may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12, NIV). The life we are called to live is happening right now amidst the messy, busy, and wonderful moments of today.
Get Out of the Waiting Room
We treat our current situation like a waiting room. You know, it’s the boring, necessary pause before “real” life begins. We coast along. We do the bare minimum. We save our best energy for that wonderfully bright future.
Oprah Winfrey, a woman who rose from rural poverty to become a global media mogul, once identified a fatal flaw in her thinking. She realized that the future isn’t something you wait for. Instead, it’s something you build right now. “Doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment.” Wow, that really hit me.
This is the secret to seeing your God-dreams unfold before your eyes. But this means we have to get out of the waiting room. You cannot unlock the next level until you have mastered the current level. It’s like expecting a promotion when you have only been putting half effort into your current job. It just isn’t going to happen.
The Biblical Logic of Promotion
Jesus taught this exact principle, though He used the language of stewardship rather than career growth. He explained that God uses our current behavior as a test for future responsibility.
“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” — Luke 16:10 (ESV)
Did that stand out to you as it did me? Faithfulness in the “little” is what creates the capacity for the “much.” If you aren’t able to do the small job well, how can you handle the big job? God rarely promotes people who despise their current assignment. Instead, he promotes those who treat their current assignment (no matter how small) as holy ground.
The David Principle
King David is the ultimate example of someone who started at the bottom, yet was also completely dedicated wherever he was. Before David was a king, he was a shepherd. It was a dirty, lonely, entry-level job. But David didn’t just pass the time. He took it seriously. When a lion and a bear attacked the sheep, he didn’t run away. He fought them and killed them (1 Samuel 17:34-37).
Why does that matter? Because years later, when he stood in front of the giant Goliath, he had the confidence to fight because he had done his best in the pasture.
Did you catch that? If he had slacked off as a shepherd, he would have been killed as a warrior. His excellence in the “now” (the pasture) prepared him for the “next” (the palace). David’s faithfulness literally gave Him the keys to the kingdom.
Don’t Save Your Best
We often hoard our excellence. We think, “I’m not going to waste my best ideas on this job (or book or moment). They don’t appreciate me.” or “I’m not going to give 100% to this small volunteer role. I’m saving it for when I’m in charge.”
That’s not how things work. Oprah followed a biblical principle, perhaps without knowing it. And Scripture reminds us that excellence is like a muscle. If you don’t use it today, it won’t be there tomorrow.
“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” — Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV)
If you are flipping burgers, do so with the excellence of a Michelin-starred chef. If you are sweeping the church floor, do so as if you were preparing for a royal wedding. If you are writing a blog, craft it in such a way that an editor might light up and offer you a book contract. (Hey, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility!)
The Best Place for the Next Moment
If you feel stuck today, look at your output. Are you giving this current moment your absolute best? Or are you giving it your leftovers? The door to the future is hidden in the work of the present.
- Do your best at this meeting.
- Do your best at this dinner with your kids.
- Do your best in the quiet moments where only God sees.
When you maximize the “now,” God trusts you with the “next.”
Something I’m Doing Next
Today, in my daily Bible reading, Proverbs 16:20 jumped off the page as I reflected on taking a leap of faith. The verse reminds us, “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20, NIV). This verse confirmed what God has been putting on my heart. You see, for decades, I have focused on being faithful in my daily work. But recently, God has been prompting me to step into a brand new “next.”
The Weed High Graduate
Here is what that looks like for me. Usually, when I speak at writers’ conferences, I like to open with a joke about my high school growing up. Even though I have over 100 books published, I only have a high school diploma from Weed High. That is Weed High School in Weed, California. Yes, there is actually a town named Weed. One of our cheers was, “Weed High is the best high you can get.” I am not joking.
I have been very content with my journey. I have been able to do everything I ever wanted to do by working really hard, attending conferences, listening to mentors, and going through a lot of trial and error.
And, I had not really thought about going back to college until recently. You know, when you have a moment, and suddenly you realize there is a dream down there? Maybe it is a dream buried so deeply that you did not even know if there was any life left to it.
Putting the Dream on Hold
Right after I graduated from high school, I had my son Cory. That fall, I started college. I went for a year while I was dating John. Then, when we were married, continuing at the College of the Siskiyous was really hard. Being a new wife and having a new baby took all my focus. So, I put that dream aside.
Later, I took a couple more classes, including a business class in Redding, California, with hopes of starting my own business. Life got busy, and I did not finish that class. Years later, I started going to writers’ conferences, and the rest is history.
A Stirring in My Heart
Then, recently, I had a conversation with Colorado Christian University. I wanted to hear about what they were doing because I have older kids who still need and want to go to college. These are my adult children who have lived in Europe, work full-time jobs, and are now looking to further their education.
As I heard about what Colorado Christian University is doing for non-traditional students, a little stirring started inside of me. I looked around their website to get an idea of the classes my kids could take. Wow! There were so many opportunities for non-traditional moms, young adults who want to start college even while they’re working, dads who are considering a career change, and retirees who realize they still have a lot of life to live.
While going through the catalog in the CCU online section, I looked at biblical studies. I looked at nutrition. But something lit up in my heart when I looked at marketing. To me, marketing is not just about sales. Marketing is spreading the good news about Jesus. It is about discovering the messages and learning how to better share them so people can pick up your book, listen to your podcast, and hear how Jesus can impact their lives.
Seeking Counsel
I thought I would mention it to John. Since he is very cautious of my time, especially with my writing deadlines and our caregiving responsibilities for his parents, I thought he would say I did not have the margin for it. Instead, he looked at me and said, “I think that would be an awesome idea.”
Then I mentioned it to my daughter Leslie, who is a university professor in Europe and does all the things like me (work, ministry, kids). I expected her to say that this might not be the right season for me. But when I shared my thoughts about going back to college, she got excited. Uh-oh
Taking the Next Leap
I decided I needed to either do this or stop talking about it. I am taking the leap! Today I went to the College of the Siskiyous website. I requested that a transcript be sent to Colorado Christian University. I went online, entered my initial information to apply, and spoke with an admissions counselor.
Friends, I am a little scared but very excited. I just feel that this is watering a seed that has been planted for a very long time. When I talked to the amazing people at Colorado Christian University, I was reminded that God has seasons for us. We do not have to put our calling on hold waiting for an empty schedule. It is entirely possible to get a degree by taking one class at a time. This is why I’m choosing the online program at CCU:
- Flexible Scheduling: Their classes are set up in five-week blocks. Even a busy working parent, a homeschooling mom, or a retired person can take a class.
- Affordable: They are very inexpensive, which amazed me.
- Firm Foundation: Plus, every single course is taught from a Christian worldview. Just as Colossians 2:8 (NIV) warns us not to be taken captive by hollow and deceptive philosophy, learning from a firm biblical foundation makes the educational process incredibly rich.
As someone who has homeschooled for 35 years, I know what a packed schedule looks like. But I also know that I can do this. My faithfulness in the “now” has given me the capacity to handle this “next.” I am excited to meet other people, learn from them, and step into this new opportunity.
Will You Join Me?
Maybe you can join me. (I’m not even joking.) Maybe you will be in some of the classes I am taking. Or maybe you just want to look at the website and see what they have to offer.
Perhaps you have a spouse or friend who would like to finish their degree but does not feel they have the time. If I can figure out how to make time amid family, writing, and life here in Arkansas, I think many people can.
There’s a Scholarship!
If that sounds good to you, Colorado Christian University has an amazing scholarship opportunity available right now. Check it out and explore how this scholarship can help you step into your own next season. Let’s do this, friend! Let’s not wait for “next” when God is calling us now.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
June 8
Ecclesiastes 11:7-10, Ecclesiastes 12, 1 Kings 12, 2 Chronicles 10, 2 Chronicles 11:1-17
Trusting God’s Control
As we conclude our journey through the book of Ecclesiastes, the Teacher leaves us with profound wisdom. The beauty of life is in its balance—the joy of light and the inevitability of darkness. Solomon advises us to rejoice in our years but to remember that life also brings challenges and uncertainties.
"Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun."
- Ecclesiastes 11:7
Youthful Rejoicing and Eternal Perspective
"Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth."
- Ecclesiastes 11:9
Solomon reflects on the days of his youth, perhaps with a hint of nostalgia and regret. He urges the young to enjoy their lives while keeping in mind the greater purpose and eternal perspective. It’s a reminder that life’s pleasures are meant to be enjoyed, but they are not the ultimate source of meaning.
The Teacher’s Wisdom on Proclaiming God’s Truth
The Teacher understood the importance of delivering God’s truth effectively:
- Teach people knowledge.
- Find acceptable words.
- Bring forth what is upright—words of truth.
- Make words as goads and well-driven nails, with point and direction.
- Speak the words given by one Shepherd.
- Acknowledge that good study is wearisome and be willing to pay that price.
The Whole Duty of Man
"The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil."
- Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Solomon, a man who experienced the highs and lows of life, ends with a powerful reminder: our ultimate duty is to fear God and keep His commandments. Everything we do will be brought into judgment, emphasizing the need for a life lived in reverence to God.
Lessons from Rehoboam: 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10-11
The Downfall of Rehoboam
In our reading today, Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, becomes king. The people of Israel request lighter taxation and more lenient rule. Rehoboam seeks advice from the elders, who suggest he should listen to the people. Instead, he follows the counsel of his peers, asserting his authority even more forcefully.
"My father laid heavy burdens on you, but I’m going to make them even heavier! My father beat you with whips, but I will beat you with scorpions!"
- 1 Kings 12:14
Rehoboam’s harsh response leads to a rebellion, dividing the kingdom into Israel and Judah. Jeroboam becomes the king of the northern kingdom, establishing idol worship to prevent his subjects from returning to Jerusalem.
God’s Intervention
Rehoboam plans to fight Jeroboam, but God sends a prophet instructing them to avoid war. They listen, preventing further conflict. This act of obedience contrasts sharply with Rehoboam’s earlier prideful decisions.
Word of the Day: Control
Definition: The power to influence or direct people’s behavior or the course of events.
Trusting God’s Control
At the end of Ecclesiastes, Solomon emphasizes that God is in control and that our duty is to fear Him and keep His commandments. This truth extends to Rehoboam’s story, where his struggle for control led to division and conflict.
When we try to control situations out of fear, it often leads to more problems. Instead, we should look to God, who is ultimately in control. As Susie Larson wisely said, “The enemy amplifies your fears. He makes a big deal out of your weaknesses. He exaggerates your troubles. And He lies about your worth.”
Turning Over Control to God
"The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams."
- Psalms 23:1-2
Turning over control to God means trusting Him as our Shepherd, believing that He provides for us, leads us to peace, and fights for us. When we relinquish our need to control, we find true peace and security in His guidance.
As we wrap up our study of Ecclesiastes and learn from the history of Israel, let’s remember that our ultimate duty is to trust God, follow His commandments, and live with the assurance that He is in control. This perspective allows us to enjoy life’s blessings without being overwhelmed by its challenges.
June 9
1 Kings 13-14, 2 Chronicles 11:18-23, 2 Chronicles 12-15, 1 Kings 15:1-5, 9-15, & 25-34
God’s Steadfast Love
Today, we dive into the turbulent history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The kingdom of Judah consisted of only one tribe, while the kingdom of Israel comprised all the others.
Jeroboam’s Downfall and God’s Judgment
God sends a prophet to confront King Jeroboam of Israel about his idolatry. The prophet Ahijah predicts the downfall of Jeroboam’s dynasty, declaring that all his male descendants will be punished due to his turn to idols. This prophecy is fulfilled with Jeroboam’s son, Abijah, who becomes ill. Despite Jeroboam’s wife seeking a different outcome, Ahijah tells her that the child will die as an act of mercy, being the only good thing seen in Jeroboam’s family.
Rehoboam’s Humility and God’s Mercy
Switching to Judah, Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, initially abandons God’s ways, leading to an attack by King Shishak of Egypt. However, Rehoboam humbles himself before God, prompting God to show mercy. Although Shishak takes treasures from the temple and the royal house, Judah is not completely destroyed.
"When the LORD saw their change of heart, he gave this message to Shemaiah: 'Since the people have humbled themselves, I will not completely destroy them and will soon give them some relief. I will not use Shishak to pour out my anger on Jerusalem. But they will become his subjects, so they will know the difference between serving me and serving earthly rulers.'"
- 2 Chronicles 12:7-8
The Reigns of Abijam and Asa
Rehoboam’s son, Abijam, takes over and goes to war with Jeroboam of Israel. Despite being outnumbered, Judah’s reliance on God leads to victory.
King Asa, succeeding Abijam, brings significant reforms to Judah by removing idols and commanding the people to seek the Lord. His loyalty to God brings peace and prosperity to the kingdom.
"His heart remained completely faithful to the Lord for the rest of his life."
- 1 Kings 15:14
The Word of the Day: Steadfast
Definition: Resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.
Throughout these passages, we see the stark contrast between those who remained steadfast in their faith and those who did not. The priests of Judah continued to serve God faithfully, leading to divine victory.
"We are following the instructions of the LORD our God, but you have abandoned him. So you see, God is with us. He is our leader. His priests blow their trumpets and lead us into battle against you. O people of Israel, do not fight against the LORD, the God of your ancestors, for you will not succeed!"
- 2 Chronicles 13:12
Asa’s reign is marked by steadfast devotion to God, resulting in peace and blessings for Judah.
God’s unwavering love and faithfulness are evident throughout the scriptures. His steadfast love never ceases, offering mercy and grace to those who repent and seek Him.
"The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, 'The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.'"
- Exodus 34:6
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
- 1 Corinthians 15:58
We read about those who did evil against God, but those who stayed steadfast shine bright. Witnessing the change in Rehoboam’s heart likely impacted Asa, encouraging him to faithfully serve God. When the people of Judah cried out to God, He showed up. Their steadfast faith and trust in God led to victory and blessings.
"But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded."
- 2 Chronicles 15:7
This message resonates with us today. No matter the challenges, remaining steadfast in our faith and trust in God will lead to His guidance, support, and ultimately, His reward.
June 10
1 Kings 15:16-24, 2 Chronicles 16:1-14, 1 Kings 16, 2 Chronicles 17, 1 Kings 17:1-7
The Divided Kingdoms
After King Solomon’s death, old tribal loyalties resurfaced, leading to a civil war between the ten northern tribes and the kingdom of Judah. This division marked the beginning of the “Divided Kingdom,” a time of constant strife and eventual conquest by outside invaders. As Jesus said, “A house divided against itself will not stand” (Matthew 12:25).
Constant Conflict
King Asa of Judah faced invasions from King Baasha of Israel. Baasha blocked access to Judah, prompting Asa to seek help from Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram/Syria, by giving him silver and gold from the Temple of the Lord. Asa did not seek God’s counsel, and Hanani the seer rebuked him, predicting ongoing wars for his lack of faith. Asa imprisoned Hanani, revealing his hardened heart.
Prophetic Reproof
Hanani’s son, Jehu, also a prophet, confronted King Baasha, declaring God’s judgment for leading Israel into sin. Baasha died, and his son Elah briefly ruled before being assassinated by Zimri, a commander. Zimri’s short reign ended when the army made Omri king. Omri ruled for 12 years, doing more evil than any before him. His son Ahab continued this legacy, marrying Jezebel and promoting idolatry and wickedness.
Jehoshaphat: A King Who Sought the Lord
Asa’s faith waned in his later years, and his son Jehoshaphat succeeded him, committed to following the Lord. Jehoshaphat removed pagan shrines and Asherah poles, and God was with him. Surrounding kingdoms feared the Lord, preventing them from warring against Judah.
Elijah: A Beacon in Dark Times
Elijah emerged as a powerful spiritual force during Ahab’s reign, declaring a drought as judgment for Israel’s idolatry. Elijah’s name means “Yahweh is my God,” symbolizing his mission to redirect Israel back to God. His prayers caused the drought, as affirmed in James 5:17-18, showcasing the power of righteous prayer. God instructed Elijah to hide by a brook, where ravens fed him. When the brook dried up, God had further plans, demonstrating His provision and care for those who obey Him.
Word of the Day: Responsible
Definition: Being the primary cause of something and so able to be blamed or credited for it.
The kings’ actions significantly impacted their nations. Omri’s and Ahab’s evil led Israel astray, while Jehoshaphat’s faithfulness brought peace to Judah. Leaders are responsible for their followers’ direction, either towards or away from God.
We are responsible for our actions and their influence on others. Whether leading children, friends, or communities, our choices can inspire faithfulness or lead astray. Reflecting on personal responsibility is crucial, especially when young generations look to us as role models.
"From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." (Luke 12:48)
Responsibility involves not only avoiding wrong but actively doing right.
The Steadfastness of Elijah
Elijah’s prayers brought a drought, showing his alignment with God’s will and his responsibility in Israel’s spiritual direction. Facing a wicked king and calling for drought was dangerous yet necessary. Elijah exemplified true responsibility by responding to God’s call.
God cared for Elijah during the drought, proving that He supports those who faithfully serve Him. As we see with Elijah, responsible actions, especially in prayer, can have profound effects.
“So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” (James 4:17)
Being responsible is a weighty burden, but God, our ultimate responsible Father, supports us when we seek Him.
June 11
1 Kings 17:8-24, 1 Kings 18-19, 1 Kings 20:1-22
Elijah’s Dependence on God
In the midst of a severe drought, God sends Elijah to a widow in Zarephath. Despite her meager resources—a handful of flour and a little oil—she obeys God’s instruction to provide for Elijah. Miraculously, her supplies do not run out. However, her son falls ill and dies, leading her to blame Elijah. Elijah prays earnestly, and God restores the child’s life. The widow’s faith is strengthened, and she declares, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the Lord truly speaks through you.”
The Contest on Mount Carmel
In the third year of the drought, God sends Elijah to confront King Ahab. Elijah challenges 450 prophets of Baal and 400 prophets of Asherah to a test on Mount Carmel. The true God will answer by fire. Despite their fervent efforts, Baal’s prophets fail. Elijah prays, and God sends fire from heaven, consuming the sacrifice. The people proclaim, “The Lord—he is God!” Elijah then slays the false prophets and announces the end of the drought.
Jezebel’s Threat and Elijah’s Despair
Jezebel vows to kill Elijah, causing him to flee in fear. Despite his previous victories, Elijah is overwhelmed and prays for death. He journeys to Mount Sinai, where God reveals Himself not in wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. God reassures Elijah, instructing him to anoint new leaders and to appoint Elisha as his successor, promising that justice will prevail.
War and God’s Assurance
King Ben-Hadad of Aram, allied with 32 kings, attacks Samaria. Despite being vastly outnumbered, King Ahab of Israel receives assurance from a prophet that God has given him the victory. Israel’s small army triumphs, and the Aramean forces flee. A prophet warns Ahab to prepare for another attack, emphasizing ongoing vigilance.
Word of the Day: Dependence
Definition: The state of relying on or needing someone or something for aid, support, or the like; reliance; confidence; trust.
Trusting in God’s Provision
In times of need, God’s provision becomes evident. The widow’s flour and oil lasted as promised, and her son was brought back to life. Elijah’s prayer brought fire from heaven, and his announcement ended the drought. True dependence on God involves trusting Him in every circumstance, acting in faith even when resources seem insufficient.
- Isaiah 53:6: “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way.”
- Romans 7:15, 18, 24-25: “For I do not do what I want, but do the very thing I hate… Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Dependence on God isn’t just belief; it’s living out that belief, as the widow did by providing for Elijah and as Elijah did by confronting the false prophets.
Growth in Dependence
Elijah’s journey shows a deepening dependence on God. Despite his weariness and fear, he trusted God’s guidance. Ministry and life can be exhausting, but God sustains those who rely on Him. Elijah’s despair led to a deeper revelation of God’s presence and purpose.
- James 5:16-18: “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.”
- James 4:17: “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
Dependence is more than avoiding wrong; it’s about actively doing right. Elijah trusted God’s call, prayed earnestly, and saw miraculous results. Even when feeling defeated, God’s gentle whisper reminded him of His presence and plans.
June 12
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