In early October we went to our church’s family camp and one of the verses that the speaker talked about was Isaiah 43:10: “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he.” (NIV, emphasis mine). The speaker, Tom Kraeuter emphasized a causal element–we witness not just because we want others to know who God is and what He’s done, but because WE want to know God better. Something happens in the process of sharing/witnessing: God changes us.
It’s an interesting perspective, isn’t it? I don’t think I’ve heard anyone else talk about witnessing as medicine for one’s own soul.
It’s been a rough few weeks on the health front, which translates into lots of emotional stress. Happily, I’ve been able to share with some folks the amazing ways God has used/is using my illness. There was one day in particular that had been extra rough and that evening I got to talk about all the great things God’s been doing for me. It’s amazing how that kind of thing can really reset my perspective and open my eyes to the things I’ve missed… talking through my own history gives me new eyes to view the future and a clearer perspective on God’s character.
So, new goal for however long my health continues to challenge me: Whenever I feel at my wit’s end, go tell someone about God’s grace in my life.
And, since y’all are here, I’ve been so blessed to be almost done with my book. I love seeing how God has used my health problems. It’s such a tangible thing. I was piddling around with a fantasy novel. My joints went bad; I dislocated my fibulas and voila! Extra time sitting around with nothing to do. Tales just sort of fell into my lap. And over the past two years, we’ve seen God change people’s hearts through it, not to mention the way He’s changed me through writing it. So I love that when people tell me how sorry they are that I have health problems, I can point to Tales and say, “But look, God has a plan and a purpose for this time. It’s not wasted. It’s not a mistake–it’s an incredible blessing that I would have missed out on if I’d been in tip top shape and I wouldn’t trade good health for where He’s brought us.” So, there you are. That’s my grace thought for the day. 🙂
