God began dealing with me concerning one of my gifts because I knew the ability to speak was there, but during my childhood I was always instructed to be quiet. I was shy and intimidated by people, and learned to put on a good front. My mother did not understand my gifts, so therefore a healthy development was thwarted. I was constantly reminded to learn the art of silence. I did not understand my Mom and myself certainly didn’t. Because of my sisters quiet nature I was to be a clone of her. It never worked, and what was inside had to come out. I strongly encourage parents to be mindful of their child’s gifts and pray for guidance in their growth so God’s work in the child will be somewhat easy. We tend to mold our children into our image but God’s way is perfect. Influence is a powerful tool if used towards good. At this time, let us together say the following affirmation:
Thank you Father for these wonderful gifts that you have bestowed upon us; we feel honored and privileged to be used by you. It is good to give thanks unto the Lord for He is good and His mercy endureth forever.
My growth was developing and you could ask, how can pain and suffering be teaching tools? Please, I want to encourage every reader to hold onto the hurtful lessons of life because they help develop Godly character. Every time I was rejected, God was imparting love, or lied on, God added a little more compassion. What about being misunderstood? I received a dose of God’s care, which will be used to help someone else in distress. Can you see my point? I definitely experienced many hurts, and looking back, my walk can never be replaced with the layers of Godly character gently placed in my spirit. It has been a wonderful experience and it will be for you too. Do not run from them, but embrace them! I remember hearing this statement, "Those whom God uses greatly are those who will hurt deeply."
Drink, be happy and don’t have a care in the world. That was I. I thought of myself as a social butterfly and my only concern was to satisfy my flesh. Underneath it all was a very miserable young woman. I worked and spent every dime I earned by partying. My search for the one thing none of the above mentioned could provide, love and acceptance. I decided it was time to try marriage. Maybe a man could give me what I needed. My mother warned me over and over with these words. "Renee,’ your way is wrong," but I did not listen, because I had all the answers. I finally met Mr. Right, and pushed and pushed until he finally gave in.
The Bible clearly states, "Who so findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord." (Proverbs l8: 22) KJV Later, I discovered how much this scripture would mean to me. Once again the warning came. "Watch what you are doing and do not marry." Oh, not me, I knew what was best for Renee’. To this day I wish I had listened. I now realize the importance of marriage, and the reason God’s instruction is wait.
Servanthood begins in the House of God. Once we learn to serve one another, we will be equipped to serve the world. The bible teaches that the world will hate us, but Jesus was our example of supreme humility. He did not select whom He would serve. He merely extended Himself and said, "whoever is willing, let him come."
Many times our hang-ups prevent us from being a true servant of God. We want to choose whom we’ll serve which is totally unbiblical. Our reasonable service is to the Lord first, and once we acknowledge His Lordship, servanthood will be a natural lifestyle with the believer.
Faithfulness is a true characteristic of a believer. How often do we ponder over attending a Wednesday evening bible study? We ask ourselves, should I go tonight, or maybe next week will be a better time? What about the many members who fail to attend on a regular basis?
I made up in my mind some time ago that as long as Renee’ had a way to get to the House of Worship, I would be there. If everyone decides to leave, I would remain unless directed to do otherwise.