I am a Cracked Vessel
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (ESV Ephesians 2:8-10)
I had a serious melt-down last week. I wanted to give everything up. Turn in the spoon. Just let everything go…
Last week I was reflecting on my life this side of heaven. I felt beaten by the masses, by society, by life in general. I cried out to God: “I don’t make a difference in this world. Do the people I come in contact with, reflect Your light and glory? I haven’t written a book, speak publicly, don’t even witness in a sense”.
Little did I know that not 24 hours later I received a message from a photography friend. Not only did she wanted my opinion, but also asked for prayer for an upcoming surgery. I spoke to my best friend about my concerns. You know what she said? “You have no idea what an impact you make on people. You always point to Him for hope and strength.: She told me to continue to be myself and speak the truth in love.
Hm…I had no idea. I guess that God uses me in a way that I didn’t even think about. I know He gave me the gift of encouragement, but is that enough to impact the world? I guess so.
My sweet friends; I am asking you to be open to God’s ways to encourage others in their walk. Let Him use you, the broken vessels we are. Through our cracks, His light will always shine through.
Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for allowing me to be useful to You. Help me in ways that will encourage others to turn to You for hope and strength. You have prepared beforehand the ways I should walk. Help me in my unbelief. In the precious name of Jesus. Amen.
Oh Iris. Don’t be downhearted. Thank you for your website. The pictures and words are beautiful and inspiring. Writing here has motivated me to study more and draw closer to the Father. You can’t always see results immediately. Some spiritual fruit comes in a month, some in a year, some in a lifetime.
True Luwana – we don’t always see results immediately. We have to trust God that He will use us for His good.
Dear Iris, were you peeking into my journal? I can identify with what you wrote. I agree with you friend, you have no idea the impact you’ve made. I know you’ve always encouraged me. You certainly do have the gift of encouragement. Remember this? https://lacedwithgrace.com/gift-encouragement/
Oh, thank you for the reminder, Bernadine. You are so precious to me, and especially to Him.
I think we’ve all felt this way at one time or another, Iris. I do know that you have a ministry on this blog–both your blog posts and your daily words of encouragement for your fellow writers. We appreciate you.
Thank you for your encouraging words, Katie.