By: Lois Lanham, House Aide
Sometimes I have a hard time admitting when I am struggling. At times it is an issue of pride; I simply don’t want to let anyone know about my perceived areas of failure. Often, though, it is my assumption that everyone else is strong, handles stressful situations well, and wouldn’t be able to relate to my difficulty. During a recent group text with several of my co-workers – which, by the way, included our Boss Lady – I risked expressing feelings of inadequacy and doubts about my ability to do my job as a house aide at The Sparrow’s Nest. I was surprised when a co-worker said that she was experiencing many of the same feelings. Carissa asked us to elaborate. What followed was an honest conversation among co-workers who are also friends and sisters in Christ.
Tears rolled down my cheeks as I read their words of encouragement and exhortation, much of which came from Scripture. One statement was particularly meaningful:
You are Imago Dei. Not a cheap copy. You are made in the image of God. You are a piece of God’s glory walking on this fallen earth. Our reflection is of Him.
Carissa had no way of knowing just how her words would touch my heart. Several years ago I attended a women’s conference during which Beth Moore taught on Imago Dei, and what it means to be made in the image of God. That term has held much meaning for me since then. Being reminded of that I am made in His image, being told that I am not a cheap copy, was so powerful and timely. Those phrases have come to mind many times in the weeks that followed.
In Hebrews 10: 24-25, we are told to consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, and to encourage one another. That is exactly what my co-workers did. I left that conversation not only feeling encouraged to continue doing what I was called to do at The Sparrow’s Nest, but knowing that God had orchestrated that conversation. I am so thankful to be part of the lives of the girls at the Nest. And I am thankful to work with people who, like me, are broken and imperfect, and who desire to be used to bring honor and glory to Jesus. When I admitted my weaknesses, God used my friends to speak healing and encouragement to my heart.
My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.
2 Corinthians 12:9