I often hear and read articles about how to go beyond limitations put on us by other people. This is true...people do place limits, restrictions and unhealthy boundaries on us (according to their own ideals and convictions) if we allow them to. And they can have a profound effect on our destiny. But what about the limits we place on ourselves?
I was reading a post the other morning about how we compare ourselves to other people. I believe this is one of the ways we can put limits on our own God-given potential. We look at what God is doing in another person's life instead of what He is wanting to do in our own.
We cannot compare our calling to someone else's. The plans and purposes God has for us may be similar to another, but are unique to the gifts He has placed on the inside of each of us.
If what you feel God has called you to do seems impossible, it's because it is. If we could do something in our own strength how could He receive the glory? When we look to and rely on Him for the tools and equipment needed to complete the task He has placed before us, the pressure to perform and impress and succeed and be the star of the show....disappears. It is not about us anyway.
If I allow my feelings and insecurities to dictate or give orders, I will never even begin my assignment.
If I allow past failures, people's opinions of me, or negative thoughts to speak louder than the Truth (God), I will stay where I am.
As you know, I am making plans to attend my first writer's conference this July. I feel like this is part of my next step in ministry and am stepping out in faith to follow Him.
Last week, after applying for and not winning two scholarships (among some other discouragement that tried to sneak in), I began to question if I was "good enough" to even go to the conference (enter negative thoughts, peoples opinions, insecurities...).
Are you kidding me?
Of course, I'm not "good enough" at anything! Isn't that what faith is all about? Isn't that what makes the impossible such a miracle when it happens?
I am not good enough. But because of Jesus - what He has done, Who He is and what He has placed in my hands - that which is impossible for me (and for you) becomes possible in Him.
Purpose to take the limits and restrictions off. God is wanting to bring His people (you) out of obscurity and use them (you) in strategic, new ways. We must hear His voice over all the distractions and noise that would try to prevent us and keep us from His plans and purposes (which are far greater than ours).
So, I am going to purchase my plane ticket to North Carolina (She Speaks Conference) within the next two weeks and there will be no turning back!
I am currently raising funds for my registrations fees. Proverbs 31 has provided a sponsorship letter to help raise support....you can find it here if you feel God leading you to help me with this next step.
And thank you, always, for your encouraging words!
God has great plans, friends! Believe for the impossible! Let us hear what the Lord is saying and obey.
Substantial Amount
1 week ago
5 friends had this to say:
"Of course, I'm not "good enough" at anything! Isn't that what faith is all about? Isn't that what makes the impossible such a miracle when it happens?"
Yes it is!....and just what I needed to hear today. In our weakness HIS STRENGTH is made perfect. (2 Cor. 12:9) We can't, so that HE CAN. We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. (2 Cor. 4:7)
What a beautiful vessel God has in you, Shelly. Through your willingness to be used by Him, along with the giftings He has instilled in you, God has (ALREADY!)used YOU to speak His message of love, hope and encouragement to others.
God will provide ALL YOU NEED, right when you need it. He knows that when SHE SPEAKS...(Shelly, that is), God is glorified.
Praying for you....
~Stacy
Can't wait to see how God does this for you!
Shelly - this was incredibly encouraging to me. Just this week, I had my first speaking engagement - 45 minutes to a group of young mothers. I am also booked next month for another one.
I feel woefully inadequate - and I all too often fall victim to the comparison game. GRRR...
So thanks for sharing this wonderful perspective. OF COURSE, I am not capable on my own. OF COURSE, it's impossible for me to do.
OF COURSE, God will show up - HE will accomplish what He wants to do through me. My only part in it? Stay humbly yielded to Him, and believe Him when He says that HIS strength is made perfect in my weakness.
GOD BLESS!
Thank you, my friends :) It would really be great to see you all at the conference :) I know God is doing and getting ready to do some exciting things and move us all out of our comfort zones a little (for His glory)...trusting Him and knowing that He is the one doing it (not us in our own strength and abilities) is essential! Saying a prayer for each of you this morning!
hugs!
Shelly
This is exciting. Writing is a great ministry. And you are right, we are not good enough. But, God accepts what we do have to offer. God bless!
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