Today’s topic given by Bonnie Gray, the Faith Barista, is: FINDING MY VOICE.
I thought I had a plan.
I thought I was on track and heading in the right direction.
Suddenly some other people began to shout over me. Their voices were louder and stronger (so it seemed).
Though I was ordained by them … though my only heart’s desire was to be in ministry … I was suddenly hearing that it wasn’t biblical for women to be in leadership roles.
My voice was shaken.
My foundation was rocked.
I was hurt.
I was quiet.
I withdrew from ministry.
I wanted to withdraw from Christians.
I knew the passion in my heart, but began to question why God would place it there since “man” said it was against His plans.
Years passed.
Favor has been granted.
I have peeked outside of my cave.
The light of the Son shines upon me.
I am His.
He is mine.
I have a voice.
I have a calling.
I am a woman. Created by the God of the universe in HIS image.
I am a woman and I have a voice.
I have a voice and I am a woman.
I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
No skewed perception will keep me quiet ever again.
I have a voice.
Oh boy, Beth. I think I am now is similar to where you were before, except I haven’t been ordained in any way. But having no voice? That’s something I relate to greatly in my larger church family.
Individually and in small groups, I do have voice, but as a large group, women are shut down majorly.
I thank God you have a voice where are you now, and I pray for change where I am, not just so that *I* personally can have more of a voice, but for half our congregation to be able to use their voices for the Lord in more ways.
I would have exploded if we had stayed there much longer Lisa. I pray God gives you strength. (((hugs)))
Hi Beth, I stand and agree with you, sister- God has given us a voice and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom to express that voice with grace in Truth. Walk in that,and check out my “Redefining Me ” post… We are feeling poetic together! In His Grace, Dawn @ Beneath the Surface:Breath of Faith
Thank you Dawn. (((hugs)))
I have been struggling with this very thing lately. Thank you for letting me learn from your struggles- that is authentic community!
I’m thankful it helped Melissa. Bless you!
This is powerful, Beth! I know exactly what you are talking about. Many years ago, I was in a church that had the same mindset.
Blessings to you, sweet friend! I know you are very busy right now with all that is going on at your farm. When you get a chance, stop by my blog…I just posted some great news!
Hugs…
Hey girl…I will try to ‘join’ this site and hopefully will be able to see when you have a new post up…This is the one that Lord has lead me to this morning. He KNEW…Love you girl.
Yours is a mighty and powerful voice. He gave you a voice to declare His truth to all generations. So thankful for your voice!