I like hearing about fellow writers’ accomplishments—really,
I do. But sometimes, I have to fight the Why
do I even try? feeling. Not all the time, but more than I like to admit.
Do you know that feeling? It doesn’t have to be writing, but
in general, someone else’s success where you hope to be successful.
We know better, don’t we? But emotions get in the way.
Discouragement sets in and thoughts run wild.
Unless…we stop them first. Rein them in and get control.
And change our
thinking—because we all have a place in the work of God’s Kingdom.
My work may not be the same as yours and your work may be
different from mine. God calls us to different ways of speaking His truth and
proclaiming His name and saving grace.
He blesses us with different strengths. He equips us with
different skills and talents. He leads us to different places at different
times—all according to His plan. A plan we may not see, but know, through faith,
is there.
Someone else’s achievement is
not about me or what I haven’t done. It’s about Him and what He has called her
to do.
My cheering her on is success for God’s Kingdom. My slinking
back and quitting enables the Enemy. And I know I don’t want to work to his
advantage. Do you?
So, let’s not quit the work God calls us to.
Let’s not miss the opportunity to step out in faith with
Him.
Let’s not allow
discouragement to set in when we hear of another’s accomplishments—but instead,
let’s encourage each other wherever we are, whatever we’re doing.
It’s not my work vs. your work because we’re on the same
team—the winning team—God’s team.
So, what do you say? I’ll cheer for you and you cheer for
me. We’ll encourage and root for each other…for the good of God’s Kingdom.
Go team!
In Christ,
Laura
Photo credit: Stock photo:
Jump For Joy!
It is about the team and not about "my" work versus someone else's work. It's all God's anyway, right? Thanks for reminding me that it's in the comparison that we feel inadequate, but in the big picture, we're all on the same team. Thanks, Laura!
ReplyDeleteI had a momentary feeling of why her and not me yesterday. Thanks for writing just what I needed.
ReplyDeleteLaura, I love your word of encouragement here. I think everyone feels this way at one time or another. I'm going to share a link to it on CMB tomorrow morning. I believe it will bless many. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteCheering you on Laura! We're all working together -and we're called to be the best at what he's called us to do - which, I think for me, in the daily is tied to out-each over my kitchen counter - not crowds - just individuals - one heart at a time. Big and little ministries - both have the ability to impact. Your message is so encouraging to keep the right attitude about where we're called to serve, about finding joy in blooming where we're planted!
ReplyDeleteAt middle age, as I am, I am beginning to learn who I am.
ReplyDeleteI used to look at what others were doing and wish I could do that too.
So, I sat back and didn't do anything, figuring I wasn't called.
I am learning my gift is to be an encourager.
My ministry is my family. And, that is ok!!
Someone has said my blog is a ministry as well.
Yeah for you, Laura. I loves your words and that you are faithful to write.
ReplyDeleteI really needed your encouragement tonight, Laura. A bit discourage - writing for everyone else ( for the newspaper for example) but not taking the time to write what I feel God really call me to. sigh. back to prayer first for clarity for my next step and to continue one step at a time - yes go Team!!
ReplyDeleteWise advice for us all, Laura. I have found that I battle this less as I encourage others more. I just realized how funny this is. Perhaps this is the very reason the Lord does tell us to encourage & build one another up. I am always blessed for being here.
ReplyDeleteI offer a very hearty amen here! These words are the cry of my heart. Your story matters. Not our stats, or our comments, or our at-mentions or shares or our Amazon rankings. But our stories!
ReplyDeleteGrateful for your words.
You said it girl!!! It is a tough thing to master but so glad God calls us to cheer for one another! (This is me jumping up and down with my spiritual pom poms... Go Laura, Go! :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat wonderful words of encouragement! I need to remember to be faithful to my calling and not be so easily discouraged.
ReplyDeleteI love your post and reminder that we all have a place and we must fill our personal opportunities! If you don't think you have an opportunity - then make one! Dare to step out and take a risk for Jesus !! You are a close neighbor at Laura Rath's place !!
ReplyDeleteSorry I meant Sharita's Everyday with Jesus Place
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