David wrote that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made”
(Psalm 139:14). Indeed we are. And each one of us is unique with different
interest, talents, etc. As an artist,
I’m made aware of this fact often. When
I perceive one of my pieces of art to be mediocre, there is always someone who
admires the picture.
It’s the same with my writing. When my Aunt Shirley Story
Ministry was in demand (a ministry of encouragement), I remember telling a
story to a group of seniors. I was half
way through it when I thought, ‘This story is weak and boring. There’s no point to it.’ I almost quit at that moment. I had it in my mind to jump off the platform
and head home. But I stayed and finished the story. Afterwards people told me they enjoyed it and
there should be more stories like it. “Write some more.” they said. Well, I was encouraged.
Another time, I entered a story in a contest under the youth
fiction category. After I sent it, I
thought, ‘Oh, what a waste of time and energy!
That’s not my best work.’ To my
surprise the story won third place. I’m not sure if the reader received
encouragement but I was certainly uplifted.
At a ladies’ retreat one fall, I was invited to tell one of
my “Aunt Shirley” stories. After the
presentation, a lady came to me and said, “Your story spoke to me.” Another one said, “I needed that. Thanks!”
Image that! We encouraged each
other.
Sometimes when I’m asked to speak or tell my stories, I use
humour to illustrate a point or a life lesson.
Those stories have always gone over well. People laugh; they learn; they share their
funny incidents. Their problems may not
be solved at the end of the presentation but for a few minutes their burdens
are lifted, maybe even enough to renew their strength and carry on.
Whenever I’m invited to speak, I always wonder who will be
encouraged. God always answers. Sometimes someone in the crowd is encouraged –
God speaks to them through my writing. And
sometimes it’s me – God speaks to me through others.
Dear Shirley, I'm always amazed at the stories God chooses to inspire others with. And I'm also just as surprised by the ways He encourages us in return. The words God inspires us to write are the coins He desires us to invest and not bury.
ReplyDeleteBlessings as you continue to write and share the words He gives you. You've reminded me to do the same. Thank you.
:) ~ Wendy
thanks for this very uplifting post. Isn't it wonderful that God only asks for our obedience? it is then that he can use even the humblest of offerings. Love this!
ReplyDelete"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing," Shirley. 1 Thessalonians 5:11. I enjoyed your story about your stories.
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