For this current military assignment, my husband teaches physics at the United States Air Force Academy. Recently he got a break from the college cadets to give a “physics is fun” demo to several of the science classes at our sons’ middle school. And let me just stop right here to say in my book, any sentence with “physics” and “fun” in it is crazy irony. But that’s because math and science aren’t really my friends.

While I find anything science-y to be monotonous-y, most of the 6th grade and 7th grade classes hearing David’s demos thought otherwise. The positive, exuberant comments were so prevalent the boys’ homeroom teacher wrote me a kind note detailing all the love floating around in the hallway and classroom.

Now, I know some of those kids are like me and science just isn’t their thing. But David is a fantastic teacher to young kids and college kids alike, and he knows how to make the material fun. Of course, it helps that he loves it and gets excited teaching it. And lest you think my man’s teaching style is super demonstrative, know he is a true introvert. But his delivery of the material is excellent, so even those young’uns who don’t get all wahoo! about science find themselves interested. David gets all things science and is gifted at helping you get it, too.

Now, David knows not all his students love science,  but he does not go into each classroom and poll students on it. He doesn’t apologize for instructing them on something some might not be all that fired up about. He doesn’t worry about what they like, don’t like, and how it all relates to him. It isn’t his job to worry about all that. It’s his job to walk confidently in the gifts God gave him. To just do the thing God created him to do.

When it comes to my own callings, I’m not always this brave. I take on responsibilities that aren’t mine to own and fall all over myself apologizing for what I fear may be different from what others want, expect, or enjoy. So when I read what Paul wrote to the Galatians, I receive fresh inspiration on what attitude to have concerning my own calling:

“But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being.”  Galatians 1:15-16

Paul didn’t form a committee or ask a show of hands for all those who might think he’d be better suited elsewhere. Given his history of trying to destroy the church, I’m sure many skeptical people would have tried to talk him out of his God given calling. But Paul didn’t give them a chance. He knew his assignment, and he stepped out in confidence to complete what he was created to do.

I love the way the Message translates how we are to step into our gifts:

“God doesn’t want us to be shy with his gifts, but bold and loving and sensible.”  2 Timothy 1:7

When we step out boldly and confidently, enthusiasm usually shows up, too. And when enthusiasm is at the party, fear doesn’t have room to dance.

As long as what you are doing is in line with Scripture and God’s will, then strap on your favorite dancing shoes and step into that calling. Clasp the responsibilities only He’s given you. Complete what you’re created to do.

Are you confident in God’s plans for you? Even if you may not know what those plans are today? Do you feel you can rest in that confidence?

Kristen getting-braver Strong, Chasing Blue Skies

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