“My mom has cancer.”
“My sister is unsaved.”
“My grandma is dying.”
I used to hear these statements and marvel at these people. To me, they were superhuman. Their level of faith had somehow “leveled them up” by like 50 levels and I therefore had not right to help them in any way.
Who was I? I tried to search my brain for some kind of struggle I was going through but, to be honest . . . I was pretty okay. Just trying to make it through school.
Because I wasn’t struggling with a BIG problem, I felt as if I had no right to come alongside people and encourage them or talk about their problems.
Since then, I’ve had my share of trips on the strugglebus. But, regardless, I want you to know that you do have a voice. Here’s three important things to remember.
1. Everyone is dealing with something: including you.
Even if it’s small, beloved. There’s something you’re fighting with. And one of Satan’s greatest lies is telling you your problem is “too small” for you to struggle with.
Sins start small. We don’t just wake up one day as a murderer (forgive me for being so dramatic, but you get my point). Ignoring even the tiniest of sins could lead to bigger issues. Then you really will be in a trial . . . and that’s not good!
2. You still have a voice.
Just because you aren’t a cancer survivor or haven’t seen someone come to Christ doesn’t mean you have no right to give your opinion on other people’s struggles.
You can still listen.
You can still apply biblical principles.
You can still share God’s truth.
You can still pray.
3. God wants to use you.
He has you exactly where He wants you with exactly the right qualifications for this conversation.
Maybe you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who got pregnant. You, with your conservative background and seemingly put-together facade, feel like she just won’t listen.
But God has prepped you for this moment. Sure, you can’t come alongside her and say you made the same mistake too. But God’s truth and hope aren’t dependent on our capability. Our stories.
So, listen to that friend. I’ve found the best conversations I’ve had are when I go in knowing God is going to have to speak through me because I have nothing to offer.
The real danger is when we go into conversations believing we have all the answers . . . even if we have a Bible verse to apply to that. May we never be so sure of ourselves we don’t depend on God.
