I could hear her coming down the hallway at work, walking and talking as if she owned the place but couldn’t be concerned about anyone who was actually trying to get work done. She paused at my doorway, looked with judging, disapproving eyes at my office, and laughed.
“You must not be very important.”
“Not usually.” I replied.
It wasn’t what I wanted to say, but I like my job and have learned that even ministry plays politics, so I couldn’t be truly honest with her. A decade ago I would have agreed with her judgement. A small office? No window? A place that less than a year ago had been – truly – a storage closet? Unacceptable.
Although the conversation has stayed with me for days, I’m not sure I disagree with my own answer. I’m not usually very important, and it’s not something I chase anymore. I don’t need business cards or office furniture or the newest gadgets to prove my worth.
In the past few months I’ve had book ideas rejected, been told by friends that I was the back-up option for speaking events, and watched as other people received support and encouragement while I was left feeling lonely and out of place.
I’m not that important. But the message God keeps giving me to share is very important, because it points women back to Him and His Word, toward freedom and joy and forgiveness. So I can be the second choice and come up with a new book idea and persevere through the hard moments because it’s not about me.
Maybe you don’t feel very significant today. Maybe it looks like everyone around you is getting the opportunities and invitations that you’re longing for. Be still. God has something for YOU – don’t waste your time wishing for things that belong to someone else because you might just miss the thing God has prepared with you in mind. Let go of the things you’re clinging to that prove you’re worthy and important and declare the goodness and worthiness of God.
Make it all about Jesus today. And wave those haters on past your doorway. You have more important work to do.
My best friend and I have been loving your “Holy Hustle” Bible plan! Just yesterday we were saying how sad we were that we’re almost done with it and we should search your name to see if you’ve written any other Bible study plans – which led me here this morning!! Please know how much we appreciate your efforts and insights – your words truly have comforted and inspired us! God is using you 🙂
Thank you so much! This is some perfectly timed encouragement today!
Yes! Yes! Yes! It IS all about Jesus! May we be less so that HE is more! Thank you, Crystal for being the bold you that Christ loves so very dearly! <3
You are SO important, my beautiful friend. And the work you do for God’s kingdom is an inspiration to so many ????
Well said! On point and timely! Thank you