Is there any part of your life would you like to renew? What “newness” can you bring into your life this year?

Each year, I try to challenge myself to take on something new in my life.

Last year, after many years of contemplating the idea of becoming certified as a Christian Life Coach, I decided to take the plunge. I didn’t have time to take the course. We had need for the money the course would cost. I told myself this as I tried to once again talk myself out of taking the course.

But, this time, I signed up and sent in the registration fee. I decided to make this the year I completed the course.

I took a very deliberate approach to making this decision:

I prayed and asked for guidance;
I gave myself several days to “sit” with the decision;
I asked the Holy Spirit to keep “needling” me if this were the path I should take
I sough t counsel from my husband.

After taking these four steps, I had a quiet-heart, deep peace that this was the step I should take.

How did it turn out? Amazingly, it turned out much differently than I expected.

I met a friend who continues to serve as my coach and friend.

I learned skills that I apply daily in my work and personal life.

I discovered ways to move our ministry forward through the skills I have learned and the people I have met.

This is not why I enrolled in the course.

But, that was what the Holy Spirit had planned. I had no idea.

But, had I not stepped out in faith, none of these things would have happened—at least not in this way.

What are you holding back from doing? What is stopping you? What is the Holy Spirit needling you to do?

Pray

Sit with your decision

Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you.

Seek the counsel of those closest to you.

If the answer is still “Yes” – go for it!