A few years ago I heard someone say,

Growth and life change happen in circles, not rows.

Unknown

I have yet to find better words to describe the small groups model in churches. As group member & group leader, faith formation and everyday spiritual accountability are what I’ve come to expect from these little space.

I know what you’re thinking…NO these are not groups that biblically beat you over the head or judge you for what happened last weekend in Cabo. These groups are a space to cultivate your gifts & strengthen your relationship with God while simply doing life with a dozen or so people.

This season, I’ve had the AWESOME opportunity to co-lead a life group of young women creatives. Each of these women are so gifted and called to GLOBAL impact with their gifts.

Yesterday, we were checking in on our passion projects, creative goals and the connections we make along the way when God subtly spoke,

Potential is NOT tangible.

Chelsea S Jackson

You may have an idea, a project, or even a person that you see GREAT potential to grow, change or flourish. But at the end of the day…that’s all it is, potential. Let’s define it:

Potential (n.) – latent qualities or abilities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness

Oxford Languages Dictionary

“May” is the keyword in this definition. May means it’s possible not that it’s happening. You can’t experience potential, and as much as we’d like to think we can, not one person can convert potential into actual/kinetic anything without movement.

If the project/idea you’re working on has the potential to change the world but you won’t MOVE to start because you’re scared, comparing, or “waiting on a sign”. God will find another vessel to push His will…without you.

If the friendship you’re in has the potential to be healthy but they won’t MOVE to make it so…it’s time to close the door.

It’s perfectly fine to “vision cast” or dream of opportunities with something or someone. However, that’s all they’ll ever be if we don’t MOVE. Here are a few tips when you’re ready to transform your potential.

1. PRAY

The Word dictates no specific time or place for prayer. Yet, there are about 547 mentions of it scripture. Why? Because the only way to get an answer, guidance or feedback from God is to Talk. 👏🏽 To. 👏🏽 Him. Before you move, spend some time meditating on scripture and talking to Him. Allow yourself space to sift through what you’re seeing and strategize on your move. The who, what, where, when & why will all come from time in prayer. Scripture References: Colossians 4:2, 1 Chronicles 16:11, 2 Chronicles 7:14 & Luke 11

2. PLAN

While God is ironing out the details. Put together a high-level plan for how the move will happen. This can look like a schedule for the project, a list of potential sponsors, a letter to that friend, or a prompt for the conversation with that family member. “To remove any space for doubt, iron it out!”

3. PRACTICE

Now that you’ve prayed and planned. It’s time to MOVE. Push forward confidently into where you’re called. Start the project. Do the thing. Close the door and walk away. If the move isn’t a quick one, be sure to pause for rest or re-grouping (more prayer) with God along the way to keep the pace steady until it’s solid! When you get there, don’t forget to celebrate!

4. PROTECT

Now that your potential is realized. You may have to make choices to keep it solid. Choices like…

Don’t turn back to open the door you closed on that friendship

Don’t reform unhealthy habits that distracted you from producing

Don’t leave God out of the actual now that it’s real. Consult him OFTEN for how to grow this new space and do His will through you.

You’ve got this. God’s got you. It’s time to move.