Here Goes Nothing...or Should I Say Something...

We’ve all felt like too much or not enough at different times in our lives, right? The Bible tells us to not hide our light under a bushel but to let our light shine before others (Matthew 5:15-16).
Rather than shy away from or down play the gifts God has given me, I’ve spent the last couple years getting comfortable with them, honing them in small groups and asking God how I should use them. And now I’m ready to grab hold of them and run my race.
God has gifted me with the ability to communicate. Whether it be through speaking, teaching, writing or simply being able to make things clear and getting right to the point. I would consider myself a good listener and an encourager. I’m not a fan of small talk, I’m much more comfortable going deep. My goal really is to love God and love people the best way I can!!
God has done some amazing work in my life and the lives of the 3 amazing people who I live with over the last 6 years and I want to shout it from the rooftops! Or around the table, in basements teaching middle school girls, one on one over coffee, on stages, on paper or online. 

It's not easy saying these things, let alone posting about them on the internet. It feels very self-focused so for a while I have been hesitant to be so outward. In the back of my mind I often think to myself, well Ellen, if this is really a calling from God He will put opportunities in your path. I believe that He does have the power to make that happen! But I also know that I need to do my part and put one foot in front of the other because I am convinced this IS from God.  Here's the thing, if you want to go speak to groups you better go tell someone about it!  If you want to find spaces to write and contribute you better go tell someone about it!  If you want to encourage your friends, other moms, women in your community well you better pick up the phone and text them! (I was going to say call but let's be honest, who does that anymore ;-)  I refuse to hide my light under a bushel because I'm afraid of what people will think!

Whatever God has planned and however He wants to use me I am ready!!  I am going to let my light shine and know that I can do all things with Christ!!  

Thanks for sticking with me while I type a little pep talk to myself :-)