Around a year ago, I began hearing through some of my friends at church that a “ladies writing group” was putting some of their devotionals together. This group was getting ready to meet for the first time at the leader’s home. The leader of the group was a published writer. My interest was piqued! So I gave her a call and got the information on where they were going to meet.
In my heart I have always known that sharing everything God has done in my life is the right thing to do – it reveals His glory. Writing devotionals seemed like it might be an appropriate way in which I could do this. However, I’ve never had a desire to share my testimony because I’m a private person by nature, and writing about my personal life and sharing with others was a scary idea.
This led to a dilemma: I can’t show God’s glory in my life if I’m not willing to share my life with others. At our first meeting I was struck at how warm, kind and encouraging our leader was. She explained to us that we were “sharers” not simply “writers.” She showed us several examples of devotionals to encourage us. I remember thinking, “I can do this! I can share some of the things that God has done for me!”
At our second meeting we were busy editing devotionals, looking up scripture, and enjoying Christian fellowship. Then, one of the women asked, “Where’s Ephesians?” Still concentrating on reading, I said, “Go Eat Popcorn.” I continued reading, but I noticed the entire room got very quiet.
Our leader said, “I think we have some popcorn.”
I looked up and wondered what I had missed.
Then another woman said, “I may have some in my purse left over from the kids’ movie today.”
At this point the room was even quieter. Finally the leader asked, “Would you like some popcorn?” I was surprised until I recalled my blurted out “words of wisdom.” I started laughing so hard, which really broke the ice for me. I explained that “Go Eat Popcorn” is an acronym for the first several books of the Bible. One of my children had taught me this over twenty years ago, and I still use it today.
I was still laughing on my way home, and it dawned on me that I need to basically get over myself. It is not about me; it is about Him. I need to just share with others what God has done for me. Sharing God’s glory is one of the ways I can show Him gratitude, while hopefully encouraging others as well. Many times the devotionals we write mean more to the reader than we can ever imagine. We just need to be willing to share!
Memory Verse:
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”
– 1 Thessalonians 5:12 (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Father, help me to get beyond my own insecurities and fears in order to share what You have accomplished in my life. I know that my life experiences can help others in their walk with You, and I’m ready to obey Your leading. God, please fill me with Your confidence so that I may share…”
Contributing Writer:
Jeannie De La Garza
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