And God Says "STOP"

*phew* Have you ever been at a point in your ministry or career, and wondered why God would lead you along so clearly, only to bring you to a sudden standstill? I'd not be surprised if your answer is yes.

And God Says "STOP" 

God gently says to me again, “Be still and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10) This time the verse speaks to me like never before.

It's been speaking to me many times as I've followed His leading and then gotten confused when I felt Him say, "Amaka, stop."

I be like, "Wait a minute, Lord. Not now. I thought You said we were going from A to Z and we're just getting to O! Is this where I'm supposed to stop and move on to something else? This doesn't make sense!"

I'm at that point.

Conception: 

I conceived the vision to use my beautiful voice for God in 2008. It's been my desire that my voice will speak life and hope to the depressed, broken hearted and everyone who needs a message in season.

It's been my dream to get on the radio so I can give expression to my gift. It's been my desire to be a voice promoting positivity, inspiration and love. My heart never stops crying and burning within me to find a place for expression. I just like to talk sha!

I have been pursuing this vision with passion.

Introduction:

The vision birthed 'Heart Rays'

'Heart Rays' started in 2013. First, it was me disturbing my friends on BBM and Whatsap with Voice Notes saying "Hey! It's Friday! I just want to wish you a nice weekend!". I had so much fun doing that. Then it evolved into a one-minute inspirational message still on Fridays. Up until 2015, I've produced Voice Notes and sent them out via BBM and Whatsap.

Progress:

When I discovered how fulfilling it is to share these messages, I started a blog. I decided to spread out. Ever since, there had been no Friday without a podcast. (except on two special occasions - my birthday & recharge times)

I converted these Voice Notes (which started as a joke) into podcasts (with profound messages) and shared them on my blog, Soundcloud, Twitter etc. Each series was a piece of my heart - a piece of me.

As at today, I've produced over 200 podcasts (some yet to be published). I always look forward to Fridays - it is more than a T-G-I-F feeling. It is a day to step closer to my dreams. I've never been more passionate (with commitment & discipline) about anything in my whole life.

Now God is asking me to stop. 

*tears*

It's hard to stop. Very hard!

It's painful too.

Following God's plan is not always an easy thing to do.

And, honestly, I want to say "No". I want to tell Him "This is my passion. And I don't want to stop!"

I want to tell Him the plans I've mapped out for this year. I want to show Him my blog calendar so He can see that I have scheduled three podcasts already.

It’s February! This is when everyone is geared up and set to achieve goals. No one takes a break in February. No one stops moving at this time of the year!

'Stop' Phase:

Ah, how can I possibly just stop 'Heart Rays'? How?!

*tears*

But you know, that's not even the question.

The real question is: Can I be obedient to do what God's telling me to do? Will I trust Him to lead the way?

Believe me, I've said "not yet, Lord" many times. When I realize I've pushed further away and God isn't smiling, I'd say "Er, Yes Lord, but . . . "

It's exhausting trying to do it my own way. I've been fighting God about the call to recharge my battery. I want to stop struggling. I have to be sure to walk in His plans. I'd rather walk with Him than work fruitlessly. God imputed this desire in me, He is the Director-in-chief. Let Him do as He please!

It's time for me to say "yes Lord" Full stop.

It's painful. But yes, Lord.

Yes, Lord.

Like I said on Monday, it's time to let go of the old system. It's time to forget the former things. It's time to lay aside the "good" to make room for God's best. It's time to experience something new.

I believe when God says "stop", He doesn't mean "quit".  He is up to something. 

Are you at a personal "stop sign" too? Are you wondering why God has called you to "stop", when He has clearly shown you the direction He wants you to go?

Don't pout. Don't quit. Don't waste any more time. Just obey

It's hard. Oh, I know. Just obey.

Let go. And let God do His thing. 

His purpose may simply be for us to stop long enough to receive wisdom, get a clearer vision, sip slowly and enjoy our walk with Him. God sure knows the path ahead, and by briefly arresting our speed, He is giving us a chance to get our bearings . . . to trust His leading.

Life Changes:

Aww . . . My heart is flooded with emotions. Starting 'Heart Rays' was one of the most defining steps I've taken in my journey to fulfilling God's purpose for my life. It was a step outside my comfort zone. It was a BIG shift. It was following God's leading. I was . . . oh my!

I can't believe how far I have come. I'm now closer to my dreams than ever.

I may not be where I want to be, but I'm not where I used to be. I've changed in tremendous ways. With each passing moment, God's desires are increasingly becoming my desires and His passion is invading my heart. I've grown in character and faith, I've got clarity of purpose and I'm enjoying God like never before.

I want mooore!

Testimonials: 

Bishop

Jenny

Chibuike

Ayo

T-rex

Martins

Everyone

A big THANK YOU to everyone who stood by me, supported me and encouraged me. Words will fail me to say how much I appreciate those I call friends and family (online and offline). For all those who have been a part of this phase. God bless you richly. Love you all plenty!

Aiming for the future:

Oh, it's been a delightful experience so far. You cannot explain the joy that comes along when you do what you love and love you do. The feeling is out of this world!

I remember the day 'Heart Rays' got its first 100 downloads. I almost threw my myself up to the sky (like I was going to literally give God a kiss). My mind was blown away!

It dawned on me that my not-that-tiny voice has reached places my not-so-straight legs haven't. 'Heart Rays' has gone beyond the shores of Nigeria. It's thrilling to just think about it.

These testimonies gives me strength for today and hope for the days ahead. Ah, I can't wait to see what God is set to do next! I'm so ready to receiveeeeeet!

Glory! 

Verses Radiating My Heart:

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin. . .

~ Zachariah 4:10

We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.

~ Proverbs 16:9

“He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
~ Psalm 46:10

I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

~ Jeremiah 29:11

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledhe Him, and He shall direct your paths.
~ Proverbs 3:5-6 

We don't have to always be in charge of our lives. Instead of trying harder, we should trust Him more. When we let go of what’s in our hands, it becomes empty to receive greater blessings from God.

At this point:

*tears*

I surrender. Until He says "START".

*presses the STOP button*

Posted by Nwamaka Ajaegbu 

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Heart Rays . . .giving out  the light.