This weekend I preached the sermon for both services. It was entitled “after the storm” and focused on Peter’s life after he denied Christ. I was lead to encourage by focusing on how he got up from the lowest point of his life to preaching and saving souls.
This nearly two months after the death of my beloved youngest brother. My own storm was fuel for this message. All the years that I have walked with God I have always seen him use others. Both men and women to speak a word of encouragement to others. This time he used me and I am still blown away by this. I watched as people listened, observed some quietly shedding tears and even more embracing me afterwards. I am humbled and in awe of what God has done.
For many 2012 has been a very difficult and trying time. A year of literal, physical and spiritual storms. My prayer is that each of us learn the lessons from these trying times and move forward.
In all things there is a lesson to be learned. Mine came from someone I truly respect. She said that what she enjoyed most is that I was myself. I knew what she meant but didn’t realize the outcome until that moment. Before I had struggled with being “the quiet one.” Not people-oriented (until now) nor am I one to be moved to freely express myself often. I am who I am. This means quiet/reserved/listener/observer/sensitive/conservative (minus the hair-lol).
To know that my pain has already been a blessing leaves me in awe of who God is. What more? On the very last Sunday of 2012 I delivered the sermon. On the very first Sunday of 2013 I will licensed as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ! Truly the storm is over!
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Yvette, I know we have never met in person but I can see such a spiritual maturity in you just from your blogging experience. It is also apparent how God is using you; I must admit I almost cried reading this post. Your heartfelt words will help many. God is already using you. Blessings…
Wow! So blessed by your comments. Thank you.
Congratulations Yevette, you are deserving and God places you there because of your selfless heart! You will bless many and many will bless you as we are all part of the same vine! Much love to you always and Have a very happy and soulfully prosperous year!
Happy new year to you and your family as well!
Sounds like a big “Congratulations!” is in order
God is already using you! His light shines best out of our broken places. He truly does make all things work together for our good. Happy New Year! Ann
Yes he does. Happy new year to you too!
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Yvette, I have nominated you for 3 awards! congrats!
http://craigmotor.wordpress.com/2013/01/09/3-awards-shine-on-one-lovely-blog-and-the-blog-of-the-year-2012/
OMG! Really? Thanks!
Yvette, I don’t think you realize how very inspirational you are. Your humbleness is real and a wonderful testimony.
You humble me with your words. Thanks again…
I want to thank you for being the encouragement that you are to me, and bless you by nominating you the following three awards that Cathy Craig Neil blessed me with: The Shine on Award, The One Lovely Blog Award, The Blog of the Year Award 2012. http://diasolifeontheborder.org/2013/01/11/a-tip-of-the-hat-to-my-fellow-bloggers/
Blessings, Dave
Words cannot express my appreciation. Thank you.