As human beings, we often think we are incapable of doing things successfully. We tell ourselves we don’t have what it takes. We’re not good enough, pretty enough, smart enough, strong enough, old enough…
We live so far beneath where we should be. Haunted by feelings of inadequacy, we retreat into shady corners. Shadows are the dwelling place of many. Somehow, it’s just “easier”. If we never try, we can’t fail, right? Well, consider these four well-documented cases:
My measly efforts could never affect anyone. I’ll just stay with the sheep. I have a stuttering problem anyway. Why would the Israelites pay any attention to a murderer? Pharaoh will laugh me to scorn! Besides, I’m 80 years old. You know what they say; you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!
Hmmm, I see what you mean. I’m the least in my family, and we are extremely poor. The children of Israel have been tormented by the Midianites for seven years, but I’m quite sure there’s nothing I could do to stop them. No, it would take a “mighty man of valor” to do that. That’s a name tag no one would place on my lapel!
Well, I’m just a woman. Our enemy is on the verge of wiping out our entire race. I know I’m the queen, but I face death if I go to the king uninvited. He hasn’t called for me in 30 days. What if I risk my life and fail to save my people anyway?
You’re a woman, but I am just a kid! God is calling me to be one of the greatest prophets that ever lived. At my age, I could never speak to this great nation. I’m too young. I’d be better off to just let the Lord find someone more experienced…
What if Moses, Gideon, Esther and Jeremiah had allowed their perceived inadequacies to keep them in the shadows? The course of history would be much different today.
What’s your excuse? Can you think of a hundred reasons why God can’t use you? Maybe it would be easier, but not nearly as rewarding! Why don’t you step out of the shadows of your inadequacy, and let God’s adequacy propel you into the sunshine of success?
Remember, it’s not about your might or power anyway…
God bless you Sister! Your writings have been anointed with wisdom!
Amber, wonderful thought. may i use this for a future issue of “First” Ladies? you’re a very good writier. i would also need a short bio … perhaps you’re husband’s name and your ministry involvement. love & prayers, bp
Awesome! Thanks for the encouraging word from the Lord!
Praise the Lord, awesome! I can think of at least one person I could forward this to!!!
Love
Sis Soly
What a beautiful writing about a subject that affects more people than will admit it. You have a true gift like your Father. Keep up the good work.
Wonderful insight.