The words replayed so vividly in my mind. It was as though I were standing across the room watching. Cordial exchanges set a friendly tone. Yet, in this moment of reflection I wanted desperately to hide. How could I have conducted myself in such a manner? What was I thinking? Why did I use that tone and those words? Yet, how gracious my sisters in Christ were to continue warmly with me!

Have you ever looked back on conversations or interactions and wished you could have a “do over?” I sure have! Too many times I’ve realized a little too late that I was questioning my worth, wondering if I brought value in any way, only to later realize I was focused on the wrong thing - me! Stepping back later it’s easy to see how the focus should have been in reaching out to others. How could I meet their need or at least encourage them along their way?

I read a familiar passage this morning …

Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Luke 12:23-24 NIV

I realize this passage addresses that we should not worry about our physical needs, such as food and clothing. But, what of the need for worth and value? It appears this is automatically understood, “And how much more valuable you are than birds!” Why would the God who created all things extend Himself to reach us through His Son, Jesus Christ, if we were of little or no value? Preposterous!

It feels to me as though this is my confession to you … one where I ask your forgiveness for those times when I sought validation instead of purposing to fulfill His design for me. He is faithful to convict us, even when only our thoughts begin to stray, yet lovingly kind enough to get us back on the right track.

Do you need a “do over” or a washing of your mind? Want to just know you are valuable? Or that what you do really matters? Just take a little time to read God’s Word. You’ll begin to see, as I did, how He extends Himself to reach us. Here’s an example:

Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life. Philippians 4:6-7 The Message

Looks like I’ve got some reading and praying to do … join me? As always, I’d enjoy hearing about how God is making His Word come alive to you. Feel free to leave a comment so others can be encouraged too …

… I want not only to share my faith with you but to be encouraged by yours: each of us will be a blessing to the other. –Romans 12:1b The Message

Blessings …
Tanja Dufrene
Women’s Ministries
Lakeside-Highpointe