Sometimes You Have to Walk Away

One Easter, I preached a sermon entitled, “Sometimes You Have to Walk Away” based on Luke 24:12 which states, “But Peter jumped to his feet and ran to the tomb. He stooped to look in and saw a few grave clothes, that’s all. He walked away puzzled, shaking his head.”  In this message, I focused on how eager Peter was to get to the tomb, but when he arrived, he just looked in and then walked away. 

Well, recently, I experienced a similar situation where I was eager to run to the “tomb of hurt and despair” for the purpose of ministry; however, on the way, I was called back and forced to turn and walk away.  For some it may not be a big deal, but for me, it was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever had to do. It was hard walking away from what I saw with my spiritual eyes knowing God has placed something in me that would help.  Listen and hear my heart – for real - it was hard looking away from the struggle and closing my ears to the cries of hurting people.  It messed me up so much that I was unable to sleep and I had to truly seek God in the midst of it all. I dare say, it broke my spirit and caused me to question myself. 

So where are my words of encouragement?  Simply this. Sometimes you have to walk away.  I KNOW it’s hard, but, there are times in our lives and in our ministry when we, as women and women in ministry, must turn and walk away. Maybe it’s because of order and protocol.  Maybe it’s because the person doesn’t want our help.  Just maybe it’s not God’s will or season for them to be released.  How about God is trying to teach us a lesson in humility and patience and He’s trying to grow us up and teach us His timing.  Just maybe God is trying to protect us from something we don’t see.  I really don’t know and I’m sure you can think of other reasons.  I also know I’m not alone and you too have experienced situations when you had to just walk away.  My prayer is that you will share your experience and those moments with other sisters in ministry, especially the “newbies” and you will ask the Lord to allow you to see through your spiritual eyes in how to encourage them so we don’t lose another wounded soldier. 

So here’s the good news!  That’s not how the story ends….In the midst of my hurt, God ministered to me in a way I never expected.  Within 12 hours, He placed three people in my path who would encourage me and remind me I am needed, my ministry is real, and what I do makes a difference.  What a mighty God we serve!

So my sister, if you ever find yourself in this place, settle your spirit, lift your head, and tell yourself….Sometimes you just have to walk away.

Peace, Rev. Dana