Have you ever been asked to do something you’re not ready to handle?
About a year ago, I felt God was asking me to step up and help take care of some women in our local church. I knew this was something he wanted me to do but I was scared to do it.
I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to do it. Many of these women were facing issues I’ve never dealt with before.
I looked at my own abilities and felt I wasn’t equipped for the task. I’m disorganized. I’m not the best at remembering details. How can I take care of these women and help them through struggles and issues I’ve never faced myself? What if I make a big mistake and mess them up?
The truth is I can’t do it on my own. I need my Father’s help.
It is the Lord that goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
One day I was praying and talking with God about not feeling like the right person for the job. I said “Are you sure God? How am I going to do this? What in the world am I going to tell these women when they seek guidance? I have no idea what to tell them!”
I think I was trying to convince God I wasn’t the right person for this assignment.
In that moment, I felt God tell me something profound.
Just love on them. Listen to them. Pray for them. Find small ways to care for them.
Suddenly I felt the stress and pressure lift off. All God wants me to do is rely on him while doing small things to help them feel loved. The truth is I can’t take their problems away but I can do something to show them that they are loved.
I felt freedom in realizing God was the one doing the hard work.
One of the small ways I was able help one of the women was to give her some bookmarks with encouraging scripture.
After some time passed by, God slowly started showing me why he chose me for this special task. Not having experience in what my friends are going through made me lean on him for guidance. I didn’t know what to say to my friend with cancer but that made me rely more on God for direction. God was faithful to show me what to do in each situation.
He not only used me for my shortcomings, but he also chose me because of strengths he’s given me. God made me a good listener. He gave me a compassionate heart. He helps me empathize with people. Time and time again God has brought people to me that are going through struggles I’ve faced before. He’s given me help and hope through those situations and I can share that with those people!
Free Printable Scripture Bookmarks
Today I have a challenge for you. Do something small to encourage someone else today. Maybe send a text or email to that friend you’ve been thinking about. Write a letter to your Grandmother. Make a meal for a neighbor having a hard week. Or give someone an encouraging scripture bookmark.
Download the Encouraging Scripture Bookmarks here.
Want to hear more encouraging stories of faith? God has done a lot in my life–like the time I realized God is real, when God stepped in and gave us a down payment for a house and how God helps me afford to be a stay at home mom. He’s amazing and I’d love to share those stories with you!
How can you encourage someone today?
This post shared at: Think and Make Thursday, Your Turn To Shine, The SITS Girls Craft & Recipe Linkup.
Carolynn says
I Love what you are doing with your book marks. Encouraging and share bookmarks is a wonderful ministry!!
I am making mini albums with scripture verses I find on Pinterest or some beautiful nature picture. Ì LOVE DOING THIS. Yesterday came across the beautiful frames so want to learn who to put Bible verses in the frames! My email is cjk@yahoo.ca
I love your books! I would like to do that too! Can you send me some Ì could print out. My name is Carolynn Koxak
Carrie says
That sounds like a fun project Carolynn! You’re free to use the scripture bookmarks in that project if you want to. Just click on the link in the post and have fun creating. Thanks for checking!
Trish says
Hello, do you have a suggestion for a bookmark with an appropriate verse for a party favor for the ladies coming to my mothers 95 th birthday luncheon?
Carrie says
I think these bookmarks would be great for your Mother’s luncheon! Or you can google “free printable scripture bookmarks” for other ideas. I hope you have a great time at the luncheon!
Kendra @ www.joyinourhome.com says
So precious! I love that it’s not always big ways and things God asks of us but something it’s the little things…even faithfully praying for others. Thanks for sharing this, Carrie! xo
Carrie says
Often times God does the biggest things through the smallest acts of love. Glad this was encouraging for you!
Holly says
Hi Carrie – As someone who has been in one of those rough spots, it’s amazing to see how many people run away from you and how many people flock to you to help. The Deut 31:8 has been my life scripture because it pretty much sums it all up. Show up in love and show up with God and know that you are doing what you are called to do. Hugs, Holly
Carrie says
Showing up and just being there is so important! I’m glad you have friends that have done that for you. Sometimes I’m tempted to not show up or not say anything in fear of making the situation first but over the years I’ve learned it’s better to acknowledge the situation and help that person remember how much God loves them. I’m so glad this encouraged you! Keep up the fight, Holly!!
Georgia @ Silver Spiral Studio says
Love these!! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Carrie says
I’m so happy to hear you like them, Georgia! Thanks for taking the time to encourage me!