Embracing Faith: A Journey of Trust and Provision

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6, NKJV)

A Restless Calling

I recognized that restless feeling. It was the same sensation I had when the Holy Spirit prompted me to make a bold move from California to Texas—just me and my horse. (Acts 7:3) Back then, I was moving toward a secure job and a settled life. But this time, the change offered no guarantees. The Lord wanted me to quit my job and dive into full-time music ministry. My husband, Bruce, was already in full-time music ministry, and God had always provided for us. But both of us going full-time? Whew!

"Lord, please give me clear direction," I prayed earnestly. "You know I'm hardheaded sometimes, so it would be really cool if you could show me a 'burning bush' or 'writing on the wall'—something like that. I don't want to mess things up."

Well, I didn't get the bush or the wall, but God communicated through a trusted friend. When He spoke to her spirit, she wasted no time delivering His confirmation, even repeating a phrase that He had secretly whispered to me.

Finding Courage in Uncertainty

I needed courage as I considered our ministry bookings, tiny savings, and a BIG truck payment. His "still small voice" spurred me on throughout the next week. "I am your Provider," He stated. "I was the One who gave you such awesome employers. They were good to you and paid you well. How much more do you think I will take care of you as your direct 'employer'? I am your Provider ... period."

Early on, the Lord began teaching us to be purpose-minded, not provision-minded. He also challenged me with, "How can you minister about faith and then shrink back when I ask you to step out?" Ohhhh, that got me! "O.K. Lord," I decided, "I'm goin' for it.” I dove into God's Word, encouraging myself with the testimonies of Abraham, Moses, Noah, David, Esther, and their stories of faith and God’s care. I took hold of Hebrews 13:8 and had to believe He wouldn't let us down either.

The Journey Begins

Not long after I handed in my resignation, Bruce and I hit the road on a ministry trip. During those days, I had to stand and fight for my faith. The monetary offerings were low because of the economy. The spirit of fear tried to overwhelm me with questions about provision. I fought back by speaking the Word of God. Matthew 6:33, Matthew 7:7, Proverbs 3:5-6 blasted out of me like invisible bullets toward a very real enemy. The Lord stood with me in my mind-battle.

"Are the bills due yet?" He asked me.

"No," I replied.

"Have you paid your truck payment?" He inquired.

"Yes."

"Is the next one due yet?"

"Well, ... no."

"Do you need that money now?"

"OK ... no."

"I am not early. I'm not late. I am right on time,” He encouraged.

I also kept hearing in my spirit, “It only takes one." Hmmm.

A Profound Testimony

Our last ministry stop on that trip proved to be a profound testimony. God used one person to meet all of our financial needs. And the bonus? The cost was covered for an annual family trip we thought we'd have to cancel. (Ephesians 3:20-21) God confirmed His Word—right on time.

Bruce and I are now in our nineteenth year of full-time ministry together, and we've never looked back. Throughout the years, the Lord has expanded our calling beyond music to include a “helps” ministry and using our horses in various roles.

The Power of Faith

It’s a walk of faith, for sure. On His direction, our book and CDs are all by donation, and when we sing/minister, we never charge. We stand on God’s promises of provision, protection, and direction. (Philippians 4:19) The Lord has always been faithful. He loves our “Boys” (horses) too, making sure we always have what we need for them as well. (Psalm 36:5-6).

All of us were destined to be born in this time, “for such a time as this.” We must watch for and step into those God-given opportunities with our God-given gifts and talents. He is waiting on us to be His light in the demonic darkness around us. (Matthew 5:14-16)

Conclusion: Walking in His Light

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them”—Ephesians 2:10.

As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded that faith is not just a word; it's a lifestyle. It's about trusting God even when the path seems unclear. It's about stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. So, I encourage you to take that leap of faith. You never know how God will provide for you in ways you never imagined.

Shara Bueler-Repka

Shara is enjoying life as a singer/songwriter/recording artist, freelance writer, award-winning author, and everything in between. She lives with Bruce, her awesome husband of 22 years, in their living quarters horse trailer and calls “home” wherever their rig is parked. Their mail-base, however, is Hallettsville, Texas. They share God’s Word through their music and testimonies (Pony Express Ministry) and minister with their horses (aka The Boys) in the backcountry.