I’m taking up a writing challenge presented by The Nester, because, well, I like challenging myself.
I read about it last year half way through the month. The Nester’s been doing this series for 5 years. Each year it has grown; this year there will be over 1200 writers contributing in so many different categories! One writer said she was going to write 31 days of Disney! I will be checking her out for certain.
Me, well, I’m going to do what comes naturally… sharing encouraging words. I’ll share a favorite quote I’ve collected and/or Scripture; a bit about how it encouraged me and how I hope the words will encourage you! My post directory will be here, updated each day with the link to the current post. For you subscribers, you’ll still get the weekly digest of posts in one tidy email on Monday mornings! No fuss, no muss!
Day 4 Encouraging Words from President Kennedy
Scroll down to read Day 1.
Years ago I wrote this quote in my journal. I was struggling with giving up my career to be a stay at home mom. I know, I hear the disdain in your voice, “what kind of woman would want their career over time with their precious children?” I did. I was good at being a teacher. I knew how to do that. I didn’t know if I was going to be good at being a full time mom. I was scared.
I heard the words of Jim Elliot at a season when I needed them. My career was a gift just like my children were a gift. God provided both. He asked me to set one aside and take up a new role; a role where I was going to have to trust Him more than I had before…no getting away with relying on my own strength anymore.
Do you know who Jim Elliot was? He was a missionary to the Auca Indians in Ecuador. In January of 1956, he and his fellow missionaries, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Roger Youderian and Pete Fleming were martyred while bringing gifts to the Auca. Jim’s wife Elisabeth wrote a book about their sacrifice, Through Gates of Splendor. Not too long ago it was made into a movie, End of the Spear. (2006)
A person who is willing to give up what is known for what is not yet is brave. Courageous.
Reminds me of one of my favorite Scriptures I memorized with my son for VBS when he was little:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the One who goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
I have had that verse come to mind so many times over the years when I have faced the fear of the unknown in my future.
God is with you. Always.
Giving up what is known for what is not yet can be done. Rely on His strength.
You are no fool to give what you cannot keep to gain what you cannot lose.