“…do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that
time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the
Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” Matthew 10:19b-20.
Before leaving for Africa,
we were told that the pastors serving as our contacts would ask us to preach at
many churches and conferences. While I have spoken in front of groups, the idea
of preaching was definitely daunting and slightly terrifying. Who am I to speak
out the Word of God to large groups of people? I felt and still look like how
the disciples were described in Acts 4:13: “…unschooled [and] ordinary…”
Now, after preaching at four churches, two youth
conferences, and a leadership conference, I can confidently say that it is not
my own ability but the voice of the Lord speaking through me. He is so faithful
to give me words for the day. I do not have messages written down or prepared
ahead of time. What I do have is the Word of the Lord in my heart from the time
I spend with Him and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit guiding me as I look out
over the faces of the congregations. I am truly amazed by the provision of the
Lord as I offer up myself for His use. My part is faithfully spending time with
Him so I hear His voice and the words He wants to share with His people at His
church. I am His vessel and it takes so much pressure off when I acknowledge
that it is all about God and not me. Be encouraged that His grace is definitely
enough for today!
