Courage To Speak

 “There was a lot of discussion about him among the crowds. Some said, ‘He's a wonderful man,’ while others said, ‘He's nothing but a fraud, deceiving the people.’ But no one had the courage to speak favorably about him in public, for they were afraid of getting in trouble with the Jewish leaders.” John 7:12-13

My Abba,

I realize I am timid to speak of you in situations where I feel like I might face hostility, resistance or ridicule. Usually, there is no substantive threat. Even when people are just disinterested in you, I am prone to keep my mouth shut. The stakes are not high. I am only risking their respect and approval. As I write this, sorrow and embarrassment take turns playing hopscotch in my heart. I believe I would put everything on the line for you. But my need for approval is obviously getting in the way of sharing your love in these everyday scenarios where your popularity is waning.

Sometimes, I think I am also concerned about your approval ratings. I don't want to present you in a poor light ... as if you need a campaign manager! I am constantly sharing my relationship with you in openly receptive situations. But when it comes to some other less friendly contexts, I don't seem to talk about you openly. Please forgive me. I don’t think I have used my opportunities well with people who don’t know you. I even change around some family members - not sharing what I think they won't embrace. Please give me your power to shed the chameleon routine!

Show me when to speak and when to remain silent. I want to be sensitive to you, your heart, and how you’re leading me. I want others to know and enjoy you as I do, especially the ones who seem to have no desire to. Remind me when I am reluctant; I was once anything but eager to hear about you.

I love you,

Mollie

My child,

I desire for you to be strong and very courageous by the power of my Spirit. Don't fear other humans. I am your God. They are not. Don't try to please them. Public opinion is as fickle as your Texas weather – a silky, gentle breeze one minute, scorching sun the next, followed by a torrential downpour – all before lunch. Managing my image is not your job. I am pleased with you. My pleasure in you does not come from your accomplishments. I take pleasure in you because you are mine. You belong to me. I love you with an unwavering determination that cannot be tamed.

That is what I want you to convey to others. Don't worry about damaging my reputation. I have survived thousands of years of atrocities committed on earth in my name. My reputation will not be destroyed by your lack of finesse in presenting the most persuasive, compelling message. Depend on me. It is my job, not yours, to open hearts and minds to my truth.

I just want you to faithfully tell our story. I will give you words to express how much we love each other. As people truly see me and the endless life of joy, grace, love, and peace I offer, many will be drawn to me.

I love you,

Abba

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