“Stefanie, I know this is incredibly difficult. But women like me need to hear your words. You must keep writing and speaking.” My dear friend had shared her heart. She knew mine and knew that to protect my fractured feelings, I was considering closing the door on my public witness.
I would never turn my back on God. But seven years ago I wondered, maybe it was time to step back from ministry. Why didn’t I?
God is good.
He had worked wonders in my life, and I knew I needed to share these stories. Not for my glory- I hadn’t authored them. For His glory. To encourage others. You see, God is good.
Matthew 5:16 instructs each of us to “shine our light” as a testimony to God and the good things He has done. Is that easy?
No.
Will I meet opposition?
Naturally.
Does any of this change the truth of God’s goodness?
Absolutely not.
Psalm 91 is filled with encouragement to shelter in Him. Imagine a large cross with the sun shining at an angle over it. In your mind, see the large shadow cast on the ground? Imagine you are standing in it, and that shadow is the area that God Himself protects. When you are in His shadow, you are protected.
But that shadow is not a hiding place,
an excuse not to act,
or a reason to become complacent.
That shadow is simply a visual reminder- I’m not going at this alone.
That shadow encourages us- Someone larger,
Someone stronger,
Someone who personifies goodness,
has me.
In God’s goodness, I am:
loved,
held,
safe.
Is fear a reason to stop shining the light?
No. It’s a reason to draw closer to Him.
Read Psalm 91. Take refuge in Him. Then do exactly what He’s calling you to do. Will you join me in prayer for just that?
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for evidence of Your goodness in my life. Help me to not be afraid to share Your goodness and stay in Your shadow, testifying for You. Thank You for Your love and protection, In Jesus’ name, Amen.