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“Step outta the way.” My friend had that deer-in-the-headlights look when I gently tapped her shoulder. “You’re looking for permission to go, but you’re standing in the way. Step outta the way.”

She giggled. “I think you’re right.” 

Sally was invited on a mission trip to Africa. The team was told there’d be thousands of children, and Sally wanted to go. A few health issues stood in the way and some personal family ditties that wouldn’t move over and give her peace about going. So, she said no.

When God has a plan for us, He usually doesn’t let up, and He had a plan for Sally. The thing was, God would not work fully through Sally until she allowed Him to freely abide in her. Sally wanted to go but wasn’t giving to God freely, which added a step to God’s plan: convince Sally He had her back.

The story of Ruth makes its way into wedding ceremonies and Mother’s Day sermons frequently. But when we look at Ruth's love for her mother-in-law, we see a far deeper conviction than just family. Ruth fully gave herself to God. When she declared her faithfulness to Naomi, she also committed verbally to following God—making Him her God as well.

As a result, God blessed Ruth and rewarded her faithfulness. He worked through her. He recognized Ruth so much that she became part of the lineage of Jesus listed in Matthew. Ruth’s life was more than average. Her faithfulness lifted the brow of God when she vowed to stay with Naomi and make God the Father her God. She was a woman of her word, and she kept her vow. Ruth stepped out of the way.

Sally stepped out of the way too, and within three days (a significant number, don’t you think?) God removed every issue that gave her concern. She went to Africa, and God kept His promise—there were thousands of children to minister to.

Sometimes we know exactly what to do, but doubt and fear bring about excuses. Step to the side and open the door to your heart. When you do, God will fully work through you.