Thank you for sharing what God is showing you, Mary. What you say about light reminds me of Luke 10: 5 “When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ 6 If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you.
Yes Mary. Such a good word. You always have a timely word. I have also struggled many times because I am a woman and teach God's word. I'm mostly called to women but have taught classes at church and men have attended and various ages. I've tried to shrink myself because of criticism but I feel alive when teaching the word and others mention how it helps them. Keep Shining bright Mary, your gift to the body is a blessing and gift from God!
This is a beautiful post, Mary. I recently decided that if I am asked by a pastor, especially male, to preach/speak at a church, I am "submitting" to his authority. :) I don't need to push. God will do that.
Thank you for your piece "Let it," as it reminds me of some things.
1. Environments need our light. There are times when we are not in a conducive environment, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't keep the light burning. Others won't like it, but that's not the point. We are to be the light and not allow it to be put out because of how others treat us.
2. We produce what is needed for a negative atmosphere to lift. Light permeates the dark. When I think of darkness, I think of that which is dead, complacent, and stuck. The dead come to life when light enters the room. Complacency bends to movement when light has ignited its match. The bond that stuck to a person, holding him down from freedom, falls off because light dared to challenge the status quo.
I could say more. Your post ignited something within me that I now need to go write about. Thank you!
Thank you for this! I could have written many of these words. My default is to shrink. Shut down. Hide. Quiet my voice. Often I don’t even know I’m doing it as it sneaks up and whispers in my wounds. I’m saving this to remind me. ❤️
I am just one of many many many people who have been blessed by your bright light. KEEP SHINING! I love you!
Ah thanks, friend.
Your book “Worth Living & The Wall Around Your Heart” helped me through a dark period of life. Thank you for continuing to shine for your Creator.
So grateful to hear that, Marlie. Thanks for letting me know.
So thankful for you, Mary 🫶🏼
I am thankful for you as well.
Needed to hear this, just months before my ordination. Thank you!
Huge congrats, Sarah!
Amen! Love this and couldn’t agree more.
Thanks, Ali.
Ooooooh, this was for me today. Thank you. "Preach where you're wanted."
So glad it was helpful, Becky.
Well said, Mary. I am in total agreement with you; not to flatter, but in sincere response to an honest thought.
Thank you, Merry.
Thank you for sharing what God is showing you, Mary. What you say about light reminds me of Luke 10: 5 “When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ 6 If someone who promotes peace is there, your peace will rest on them; if not, it will return to you.
Great verse!
Yes Mary. Such a good word. You always have a timely word. I have also struggled many times because I am a woman and teach God's word. I'm mostly called to women but have taught classes at church and men have attended and various ages. I've tried to shrink myself because of criticism but I feel alive when teaching the word and others mention how it helps them. Keep Shining bright Mary, your gift to the body is a blessing and gift from God!
Amen, and grateful for YOUR voice.
This is a beautiful post, Mary. I recently decided that if I am asked by a pastor, especially male, to preach/speak at a church, I am "submitting" to his authority. :) I don't need to push. God will do that.
Nice way to word that, Sheila.
Mary, what do you do if people look to you for ministry, and you feel completely unqualified?
I've prayed, but God is keeping a silence that seems almost amused.
I have kind of a following, and folks have shown up unasked at the house...for blessings...and every word has to be right.
Please, I need a suggestion!
In those kinds of situations, I let God open doors.
Thank you for your piece "Let it," as it reminds me of some things.
1. Environments need our light. There are times when we are not in a conducive environment, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't keep the light burning. Others won't like it, but that's not the point. We are to be the light and not allow it to be put out because of how others treat us.
2. We produce what is needed for a negative atmosphere to lift. Light permeates the dark. When I think of darkness, I think of that which is dead, complacent, and stuck. The dead come to life when light enters the room. Complacency bends to movement when light has ignited its match. The bond that stuck to a person, holding him down from freedom, falls off because light dared to challenge the status quo.
I could say more. Your post ignited something within me that I now need to go write about. Thank you!
This is so beautifully stated! Well written!
Thank you for this! I could have written many of these words. My default is to shrink. Shut down. Hide. Quiet my voice. Often I don’t even know I’m doing it as it sneaks up and whispers in my wounds. I’m saving this to remind me. ❤️
Keep shining, Mary!
Loved every word.
Grateful.
Wow I needed to read this one today! Thank you for staying obedient to the Lord and sharing it with us all.