“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT)
Before I Write
My laptop sits on the table taunting me. “Just sit down”, it says. “You know you want to!” And I do. Words are bubbling up from my soul to my mind like one of those Science Fair volcanoes, but to let them gush out and share them is scary, so….
Before I write:
The dishwasher needs emptied. The laundry has to be put away. Every little job calls my name.
Before I write:
I’d better think more about it! Think, think, think. Yes, thinking is safe!
Before I write:
It’s imperative I have a great idea and then also feel confident that I can perfectly bring the beginning, middle, and end together in a meaningful way.
Before I write:
I must mute the accusing voice, conquer the fear of failure, and overcome, well, ME!
Here’s a news flash(NOT!)….the crazy process I go through just to write a few words is the same when I sense God’s prompting! That Still Small Voice whispers, “Just get up and go.” It says, “You know you want to!” And I do. Plans and projects to share the Word flow from my soul and flood my heart, but to let them overflow into action is scary, so….
Before I serve:
My expectations must be emptied, my priorities put away, and I search for confidence to be ready for every little job when God calls my name .
Before I serve:
I’m sure more thought is required. Think, think, think. Yes, thinking is safer than stepping out!
Before I serve:
It’s important I’m confident that the idea isn’t just mine and that I am the perfect one to see it through from beginning to end in a way that is meaningful to others.
Before I serve:
I must mute the accuser’s voice, trust in the One who conquers fear, and well, let the Overcomer use me!
As you can see, whether it’s writing, serving, or doing a whole list of other things really, I find a lot of excuses to put them off. Maybe you’re like me and feel called to action yet hesitate, because also like me, you lack assurance in your abilities.
Here IS the Good News: “We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we are qualified to do anything on our own. Our qualification comes from God.” 2 Corinthians 3:4-5 (NLT)
The lesson for me, and maybe you too, is that we don’t have to have it all together, be perfect, or see the end before we venture into something new, share our thoughts with others, or answer a Call. We do need to put our trust in the One who goes before us, assured He will equip us with what’s required for the job. Will it still be scary? I think so. But, should we let our fears and insecurities stop us? I’m pretty sure we know the answer to that one!
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
I’m writing today to join the other writers at http://www.fiveminutefriday.com where the prompt is “Before”. I encourage you to click over and read what the many talented writers there have come up with! Again, thank you for being here with me. I appreciate it more than you know!
Sooo true! All those excuses.. and such a good ending, “do not be discouraged”.
A late hello from your fmf neighbour =)
Unfortunately I can come up with A LOT of excuses! I am trying to remember it isn’t about me or my hesitations but rather about doing for God. It’s a battle for sure. I am repeating “do not be discouraged!” Thank you for your kind comment and for taking your time to be here!
Now I sit me down to write,
except I have to stand, you see,
for space is really rather tight
and dog-crates take priority.
So, too, do machine-shop tools,
engines, and odd biplane wings
for herein our real life rules
with no place for gentle things
like tables, chairs, a soft divan
upon which one might lounge;
no, the roar of life goes on
and thus we hear the sounds
of a rivet gun just down the hall
(it knocks the pictures from the wall!)
I don’t stand to write but I sure do pace a lot in the process! Thank you again for sharing your talent with me Andrew.