For years I’ve asked God for a little glance into the difference I might be making. For years, He has been silent regarding this question. So, I continually wondered “Am I even making a difference?”
Of course, I should know it is not about seeing the difference you are making – it is instead about being obedient to whatever God asks you to do. I get that – seriously I do. But yet, why do I still need the confirmation that what I say and do makes a difference? Can anyone else relate?
For two weeks this month, this website has been down. And I’ve sat staring at a blank screen and wondering . . . what is this all about? Being so frustrated, it would have been easy to walk away from the calling. I was close — after all, who needs added pressures in their life?
Maybe it was my lack of faith.
Yes, me of little faith who needs to see those mysterious ways God works. However, having faith in any area means you will not see. That’s faith. You are hoping, but you are not seeing. You are following God’s direction, but you feel like you are wandering. The book of Hebrews puts it pretty clearly!
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and
certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
I couldn’t see what was ahead.
I struggled to be obedient in writing. Actually it was beyond struggling, I was bickering and groaning. It’s a wonder God didn’t snatch me bald-headed and take me out to the woodshed. But instead, get this . . . He actually gave me a glimpse into how my writing was making a difference. I had to conclude that following God’s call was worth fighting through the frustrations.
Last week I received confirming emails from gals who had read articles I had written or attended my Bible study. They actually shared how those Words had impacted them. I cried like a baby. Once again I was begging for forgiveness for complaining about the gifts God had given me to glorify Him and serve others. I cried because I was so touched by each email and the journey these gals were on. I thanked God for the sweetness of each word as I felt God sweetly whispering, “Alene, get over yourself and get on with MY business. I’ve given you the glimpse you’ve asked to see. Now, move on, share, and love my people!”
Get over yourself and move on.
Are you feeling stuck where you are? Are you bickering with God about the difference your call is making? Oh friend, learn from me. When you live by faith, you will not see. You will have to trust God with all – even when it means starting over.
God is so amazing! He is definitely doing a work in me at the moment. I am growing my mustard seed of faith, following HIM blindly even when I have to start all over.
Will you follow blindly too?
Helen Murray says
Making a difference? This was for me, today. Thankyou for doing as you’re told. I’m going to do that too.
Positively Alene says
Keep serving the King and He’ll make sure you are making a difference.
Susan Rinehart Stilwell says
So good, Alene, and such truth. If it’s any consolation, I feel your pain. With so many voices out there, why one more? And why MINE? Questions to take to the throne and ponder. So glad He doesn’t snatch me baldheaded too ;)
Positively Alene says
Yep – totally glad we get to go to Guatemala with hair. LOL — Can’t wait — counting down the days . . .
Jerry Dugan says
“Alene, get over yourself and get on with MY business. I’ve given you the glimpse you’ve asked to see. Now, move on, share, and love my people!” – Well said. I guess I should actually give credit to God for putting that on your heart. I’m glad you qouted Him though. Great reminder.
lhamer says
I’ve been in a blogging funk. Not sure my purpose or where I am going with this thing. I’ve missed you on here!
Positively Alene says
Hey friend, did you do the SAVOUR study with me? If so, just rely on those lesson! You have such a great purpose — do not let the enemy steal that away from you. Send me a message, if you need me.
rick gardner says
Sis I don’t guess my response will suprise you but thank you for all you do to keep this old man motivated. Remember you don’t always got to teach an old dog new tricks you just got to get him to do the ones he knows,
Love you, your bro. Rick
Positively Alene says
You bless me — always!
BethFerrell says
Ouch … get over ourselves. I can relate Alene. I ponder some similar things. I’m glad you will press on and continue writing. I will too. Bless you Sister!
Positively Alene says
Glad we can be encouragement for each other! Not sure why writing is such a battle, but it is. But one I know I’m called too — and I’m pretty sure you are too!
Sadie says
Wow! This is good. I have been finding it so hard to be motivated in my writing and not sure which direction to go. I too have wondered lately if my voice even matters – as someone else mentioned there “are so many voices out there”. I’ve also wondered if anything I’ve done has mattered. I think sometimes we are our own worst enemies. But you are so right, we need to keep doing even when we don’t see. God wants our faithfulness and that should be enough. Thanks for your ministry and encouragement.
Tiffany Villarreal says
Lol omg this post made me all teary eyed because this is exactly how I feel right now