Quit holding out. Mark Batterson, The Lion Chaser’s Manifesto, Chase the Lion
Once upon a time I had a bookstore. For years I spoke to people, prayed for people, listened to their hearts when they wanted to share.
Everyone has a story.
Every story is part of your own unique journey.
It may be cracked or broken in places–tarnished here or there. But your story is sacred.
It is yours, for better or worse…
And can I tell you something?
Most people will want to hear it.
In all those books I sold?
I sold lots and lots of true accounts, biographies, and true crimes.
We all seem to be riveted to a story that is real, or at least based on true events.
So… don’t let anyone tell you to keep quiet and keep it to yourself. Don’t let their sarcastic remarks or belittling criticism bully you into silence.
Your story certainly matters to you.
And you know what?
It really matters to God!
Destiny might lead us to the path but the rest of it is up to us. — Quote from the movie: Mrs. Palfrey At The Claremont
Isn’t it strange?
I hear Christians quoting Romans 8:28 all the time.
So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together to fit into God’s perfect plan of bringing good into our lives, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. [The Passion Translation]
And yet, when I have attempted to tell my story (which is definitely tarnished in places) I am told that I should let go of the past, forget it and move on, no one wants to hear it, etc.
Well, I believe Jesus wants to use my story.
I believe He can take even the junk and make it shine for His glory.
And, if I can reach even one person with the truth, of how God can take anyone (even someone like me) and redeem their life, turn it all around, and then, “…use it to fulfill His designed purpose?” Well then, He can have my story–broken stuff, and all.
Jesus had His critics, too.
I will comfort myself that I am in exalted company.
Conclusion: Quit holding back. If you are afraid? Do it afraid.
(I do.)
Blue Letter Bible:
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before [it hated] you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. (John 15:18-20)
Reflection
The believer in Christ should not shrink from suffering or persecution, but should take heart in the fact that his suffering is counted as due to Christ. For of course, the redeemed children will be the object of scorn and derision! The world despised and hated the most loving, caring, hospitable, and merciful man to ever walk the earth; if they should hate Him so, how can we not expect them to hate those who follow that man—Christ Jesus!
Women With Destiny 