I had plans for my life…plans to climb the corporate ladder and one day become the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of a company, all while being married and raising three kids. That was my dream as a teenager, but two years ago, God directed me to leave my corporate job as an internal auditor to stay home with my family and homeschool our (then) three kids. Little did I know, He would add another child to our family a year later.
During the first year of staying home, I battled thoughts of discontentment, insecurity, and inadequacy. I knew the work I was doing was important, but I felt that I was no longer being successful. There were times when I would look at other women and wish that I had it all, not realizing the things they had been through or were going through or the sacrifices they had to make to get to where they were. Over time, God has taught me that I do have all that I need, which is enough. He’s also taught me that success is not tied to a career, possessions, or status in life. At the end of the day, success boils down to whether or not I have done what He planned for me to do. So, I’m learning bit by bit to be content with the path God has chosen for me. I’m learning that we all have our own unique paths and our own races to run. I’m not meant to be on someone else’s path running their race, and they are not meant to be on mine.
These feelings of discontentment, insecurity, and inadequacy try to creep up from time to time, but the very things that put me back on track and keep me grounded are reading God’s Word and prayer (praying very honest prayers). That’s the only way I can be sure of what He’s called me to do and satisfied with where He’s called me to be. Without them, I’m sure to wallow in the “could’ve”, “should’ve”, “would’ve” mentality. Turns out that the life I have now, although it has not always been easy, does not compare to the life I thought I wanted. God sure knows what He’s doing!
If you’re not content with where you are in life because God’s plans directed you on a different path, please be encouraged today knowing that He knows best. The path He chooses for us is not sunshine and roses all the time. It will be unpleasant and difficult at times, but it is worth it. His path leads to abundant life. OUR chosen path may look all good starting out, but it only leads to destruction and death (Proverbs 16:25). So choose to be content with where God has you, and learn to thrive in that place so that His plans prevail. He will blow your mind if you let Him!
Let’s Get Practical: Reflect & Grow
- What makes you discontent when you look at your life? Why does it make you discontent? Journal your thoughts.
- Read Philippians 4:10-13. What do these verses say is the secret to contentment?
- How can you stay grounded when you feel discontentment rising up in your heart? Think of reasonable actions you can take to combat discontentment. Journal your thoughts.
Wow Melanie, this is so on point. I can totally relate as I stay home with my little ones after previously working out of the home for years. Thank you so much for this transparent and powerful message! God does know what He is doing!!
Thank you so much for your comment, Quinnise. To God be the glory! He sure does know what He’s doing! I hope you are enjoying your time at home with your little ones and are experiencing God’s faithfulness through your “yes” to Him!