You've just moved to Charleston, or you've never been to church, or you walked away from it a long time ago. Whichever it is, there's a good chance you're carrying a question: What do I do next?
In the final message of our How series, Pastor Saz explained that this question is really about identity. Who am I? What am I made for? Am I enough? She asked it herself at 15, sitting in a church seat with no faith, wondering if there was more to life. That question turned out to be where she first met God.
Saz didn't hand out quick answers. She handed the question back, because the best answer comes from a relationship with God, not a formula. Using Psalm 23, she described three seasons you might be in.
1. God may be leading you out
Maybe you're stuck in a pattern, a relationship, a fear, or a lifestyle you know isn't good for you. Saz told the story of her own post-college years, when she felt lost, and a friend had the courage to be honest with her. Her message to anyone in that place is simple: there is no judgment here. Church is a great place to get back on the right path, and God cares about your soul before he cares about your performance.
2. God may be leading you through
If you're in the middle of something hard, the middle isn't the end. Saz pointed out that the "darkest valley" sits right in the center of Psalm 23. What you're learning now becomes wisdom for someone else later. Her line says it well: "Today's through is tomorrow's arrival."
3. God may be leading you into
The end of the psalm points to anointing, provision, and presence. Anointing was an ancient act of welcome, like being invited into someone's home. Saz's point was that nothing you've done disqualifies you from God's presence. She also reminded us that you were made for something only you can do, just as David, a rejected teenage shepherd, was chosen for a purpose.
Provision means that whatever step you're facing, you won't take it empty-handed. The word translated "follow" in the psalm means to chase or pursue. God isn't distant; he's coming after you with goodness.
Presence is the biggest promise of all. Even if your world feels shaky, you aren't walking alone.
Four questions to take with you
What is God leading me out of?
What am I going through right now?
What am I learning about myself and about God?
What is God leading me into?
Sit with them this week. Talk them through with a friend, a partner, or a small group.
Your next step
If you're new to Charleston, we'd love to meet you. If you've never been to church, come as you are. If you've been away for a while, there's a seat for you. When you visit, stop by our Connect Point, where we'll give you a gift and a Bible and help you take your next step.
You don't need all the answers. You just need the next step, and you don't have to take it alone.