Give me words

/ Julie Harris

photo 5

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.  Joshua 1:9

There’s nothing like looking out over the ocean to make you feel so small and to bring life back into perspective. That He would create this vast expanse of water, one that ebbs and flows each day like clockwork is simply mind boggling.It is a great reminder to me that all the little things that tend to weigh me down really are so insignificant in the light of eternity.

I have been consumed by the “little things” lately, and I have allowed fears to set in. He woke me up again early this morning and began giving me a “pep-talk”.  

I am afraid of simple things- like not having the right words to say, being misunderstood, and not being bold enough.  He reminded me of Moses and just how inadequate he felt for his task.  As I read Exodus 3 this morning, I saw just how patient and understanding our Lord is. Moses asked God but what if… and over and over- He reassures him. 

Moses said to the Lord, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”

The Lord said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute?Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? 12 Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.” Exodus 4

It is when I feel at my weakest that I see Him working the greatest. Even more than the simple fear of inadequacy lies the fear of being disobedient- of not doing what He asks of me.  

There is nothing as wonderful as having my Father wake me up to encourage me. And as He directed me to read these words in Exodus this morning, it was as if He spoke them directly to me- 

Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say!

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 thoughts on “Give me words”

  3. “I am afraid of simple things”
    I have to tell you something Julie – seeing those six words in print on a page from someone else – they give me courage. Because those are very brave words. And brave words make my simple things less scary. If you can admit it – then so should I. And when I admit it and nothing changes, the sea still ebbs and flows, the day goes on, people still are the same – that helps me put my little things down – one at a time.
    “I am afraid of simple things” – yet is the courage of a lion to others!
    Thank you!!

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    • Paul, I always appreciate your thoughtful comments. So often I find that the things I fear are never as difficult as I think they are going to be. Once I have prayed and have His peace- He is always faithful to give me the words (or wisdom, direction). He is a faithful Father!! 🙂

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  5. Julie, I’ve been thinking a lot about God’s presence, how his answer to our prayers sometimes is simply to give His presence. So I’m glad to read your opening verse from Joshua.

    And the verses from Exodus? I had never thought before to apply them to myself as a writer.
    Me: “I am slow of speech and tongue”
    and God: “I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”

    Thanks for this post, Julie

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