About a month ago, I was asked to co-teach a workshop at the Becoming Brave Conference. Oh, and the topic? Thanks for asking:
Becoming Beautiful.
In no way did I feel qualified enough to speak on this topic, because for one, I'm only seventeen. And for two, this is stuff I struggle with myself. We really had to dig deep into what it really means to be beautiful, and it's completely put me in check.
At first, I didn't want to speak. I thought people wouldn't listen to someone their age. Maybe they'd think I thought I knew everything (which I definitely do not).
So, I just thought I could help JoAnna get stuff together and then let her speak. But you know what happened?
I opened up my bible and I believe God was speaking to me.
"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city," (Acts 18:9-10).
God's been growing me like crazy lately. I spoke on the topic at a bible study, and I know I'm not the best speaker. I stutter and loose my track of thought, but if God speaks even to one person through me, what I've done was worth it.
I want to do the things The Lord wants me to. Most of the time, the things he asks are scary- really scary (or so I've noticed)- but completely worth it in the end. Let's become brave and do something. I need to learn to see the opportunities God places in my life, and then act on it.
Listen to Paul's words:
"I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task The Lord Jesus has given me- the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace," (Acts 20:23-24).
Be brave and listen to the voice of the One who calls you daughter.
