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Monday, October 8, 2007

It's Not About Me

I have gone through a thing or two in my life and have stood in awe at the fact that I am still sane. I have heard so many times from other people “You are such a strong woman.” This has always made me feel somewhat guilty and unworthy. I felt like I was taking credit for something I did not do and I never knew why until today.

This morning I once again heard the words that make me feel shameful. I began to meditate on this and asked God why I feel this way. I could hear myself thinking out loud, “God, I am not strong. Why do people think I am strong? By the world’s standards I should be labeled as a strong woman but I DON'T FEEL THAT WAY! Why?”

Then I felt that oh so gentle nudge tell me ever so sweetly, “You are right to feel that way. You aren’t as strong as others believe and you must tell them so.”

What? OK that little spirit of pride started to rise up and I began to sense some queasiness coming on. Then thoughts started to roll around and around my head, “What does He mean I am not strong?” “I went through this and this and survived.” “I should be crazy but I’m not.” “I don’t understand.” “What do they see then God?” “What do they see?!”

Then, God interrupts my thoughts. You know how he speaks to you over your own thoughts? Well that is what He did, somewhere between “I don’t understand.” and “What do they see then God?” He said, “They see me.”

….sigh.

My eyes widened, my heart started racing, I felt joy swell up in the pit of my stomach and I began to laugh! I knew He was right, after all He is God, but still I always ask Him to show me in His word. And show me He did. Right there in 2nd Corinthians.



And he said unto me, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made
perfect in weakness."
Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
I had felt this way because I am not strong. In fact, I am weak! God has many opportunities to show how strong He is because I have had so many weaknesses! It means I truly am dying to self and allowing myself to become more like Him. Wow! What a revelation! I do feel as though a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders and I certainly have a new perspective about things that I have gone through.

So, if you don't like hearing people talk about how strong you are, from now on you can accept those words with a wink and a smile and say, "Thanks, I'll tell God He is doing a wonderful job!"

Just know they see Christ in you. You are reflecting Him! We are being molded and shaped. We are on the potters wheel having our infirmities removed. God is so good! Now, we can gladly glory in our weaknesses so that Christ can be seen. Can I get an Amen?!



I'd love for you to visit me at my personal blog: In Pursuit of Proverbs 31

In Pursuit of Proverbs 31

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8 Comments:

Blogger Queenygirltara said...

I can so totally relate! People are often shocked by the hysterical laughter that follows the "you always have it so TOGETHER" statements...if they only knew...

Thanks for blessing me today.

October 7, 2007 at 10:03 PM  
Blogger Lori said...

Oh Amy I can not begin to tell you how many times I have felt that way. When I hear the words, "oh you are strong" I cringe because I know how weak I truly am.

Thank you for the perspective.

October 7, 2007 at 10:09 PM  
Blogger Denise said...

How very true this is sweetie.

October 8, 2007 at 12:23 AM  
Blogger lori said...

Amy,
I hear it in the form of 'you have so much energy...' I really don't, HE does and HE supplies it.
I too cringe, thanks for the reminder!
Perfect timing~
lori

October 8, 2007 at 5:53 AM  
Blogger Heather said...

Amy, you and I must be sharing brain waves today! Paul's thoughts about weakness have been on my mind too. Thanks for keeping it real!

October 8, 2007 at 1:59 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Oh Amy,

This is awesome to read and I am right there with you. I don't have it together. I am not strong. I fall down all the time over the same stuff.

Thank you for this thankyou. Also, I love those times during the day when our Lord talks over my thoughts and interrupts me. Love it. Have a blessed and beautiful day. Love and hugs, Lynn

October 8, 2007 at 2:19 PM  
Blogger Elise @A Path Made Straight said...

It is in our weakness that we are made strong... I see it in you, Amy.
Thank you for this. I needed this reminder so very much.

October 8, 2007 at 7:39 PM  
Blogger Lisa @ The Preacher's Wife said...

I too often hear 'i don't know how you do it all...' Truth is, I don't. HE does or it doesn't get done...

blessings on you Amy!

Lisa

October 10, 2007 at 2:20 PM  

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