I am very fortunate to be able to work in a Christian organization where the Gospel is not banned or frowned upon. In a couple of weeks it will be my turn, once again (there are over 40 employees who take turns) to do and lead the morning devotional before work begins. We are allowed to do whatever is on our heart, usually 15 minutes worth. I try and have something that everyone can relate to.
Speaking in front of people, and especially my peers does not come easy for me! I have been at this company two and a half years now, and by the Grace of God each time my turn comes up to do morning devotionals, it does get a little easier.
At the beginning, I would get sick to my stomach five minutes before and having to rush out to go to the bathroom and come back quickly like nothing ever happened and begin. That does not happen anymore, praise God. Early on I would only read a devotional, pray and that was it. My fifteen minutes turned into three minutes.
Over the months, I have seen myself progress tremendously in this area of leading, praying and worshiping in front of people. So much, that the last few times I have incorporated playing my guitar and yes, singing an ending praise song or a song related to my devotional.
It is totally amazing how other aspects of my life are falling apart around me and I feel I cannot go on, when in this one little area of praise music I know I am gifted at and am confident about! In the past, I used to do worship for small women bible studies. Grant it, I still get scared silly before doing it, but the Holy Spirit’s calming affect goes into operation once I begin.
I am still tweaking the devotional that I got off the internet. I will tie in at the end performing The Air I Breathe (one of my favorite Christian songs from Hillsongs).
Any who. If you are interested in what I will be sharing in two weeks, please click HERE.
That is a lovely devotional. You are lucky to have this at work... what a great way to nurture the connection to God in your daily life. I like this line: Breathing is something we usually take for granted. But until our last breath, it’s the ongoing miracle that sustains us. It speaks to me because that is where I find my connection to God. I have learned to take a moment to focus on my breathing when things are starting to spin out, and it really helps.
ReplyDeleteI also love that song. I have it saved on my computer and play it almost like a lullabye before I go to bed, on nights when I feel a little crazy.
I would be scared to death to have to do something like this in front of people. I'm glad to hear you say that it is getting easier for you. Something I am working up to is chairing a CODA meeting. I have been going to two meetings a week for over a year - well over a hundred meetings - but I am still afraid to sign up to chair a meeting. It isn't hard, it isn't even as if I have to come up with what to talk about. Its just the idea of being in charge, of speaking in front of everyone, that leaves me feeling petrified. This gives me hope that it will get easier.
Sounds like you are doing a wonderful thing. What a blessing. I'm sorry things seem to be falling apart around you, but it sounds like you have a strong spirit. Embrace that and keep doing what you love.
ReplyDeleteI took delight in reading your post today. What a great topic! Intertwining worship with the breath of God. This devotional can only be good for the soul and the souls of others. Ron
ReplyDeleteSounds amazing!
ReplyDeleteThat's a great idea. I will listen.
ReplyDeletePublic speaking isn't my forte either. I give you credit. Glad the holy spirit is along for the ride.
ReplyDeleteGod is using you in so many ways...God uses us most in our despair if we will allow HIM. I am confident your co-workers will be blessed through the message GOD places on your heart.
ReplyDeleteBlessings, andrea
I wish we can do that at my workplace, have devotions prior to start of anyone's shift...I wish I can play guitar with you, not that I'm a great guitarist...and nope! not a great singer either...But I was just thinking how fun it would be to worship Him together...whether out of tune or with great harmony! God bless you JBR! And you inspire!
ReplyDeleteHi JBR,
ReplyDeleteWhat a great devotional! I am so glad it is getting easier for you. I know your coworkers will be blessed with your worship and that devotional.
Blessings,
Tammy
Great devotional! Never thought of the expiration of God's word being the inspiration for the writers of the Bible. Thanks for making me think...
ReplyDeleteInspiring piece of work here. Having breath, knowing the air you breathe is in actuality the breath of God.
ReplyDeleteAwesome devotion, so very proud of you sweetie.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you'll be knocking their socks off with the devotional and your followup with praise. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteThat was awesome! You are so right on the mark. We were created with the built in desire to worship and our souls can find no rest until we rest in Him. You are blessed to be able to work in a strong Christian environment.
ReplyDeleteThank you to all for your comments!
ReplyDeleteJBR, blessed be thy soul. You have been through so much, and yet you found it in your heart to be a part of HIM who seemed to have let you down before. But instead you revere him. Good thing. Luv Luv.
ReplyDeleteWith your life falling apart, yet standing on a Rock and inspiring others shows the amazing strength that God gives to those who worship. I know He's working in your life in other ways too. Thank you for your blog. It's such a blessing.
ReplyDeleteWith everything falling apart around you, you are finding stability with those who truly care. It is there you will find the strength to put together what falls apart. I wish you luck with your performance this week!
ReplyDeleteFaith is powerful - in so many ways.
ReplyDeleteVery encouraging post . I to play guitar for my youth group. All the best in the weeks ahead.
ReplyDeleteNice blog.
ReplyDeletevery full of confidence your post here today. it's good to read.
ReplyDeleteJBR- wow, is that you? What a lovely pic. I remember when Darlene (what's her name) from Hillside in Aussieland came out with "Shout To The Lord" I friggen cried a river everytime I heard it. Sometimes still do. Cuz there was nothing polished in it. It was just an ugly blabbering outpouring of love for the Lord. Well, they're not like that anymore. In fact, just recently heard the person in charge of praise there say they hardly ever do that song anymore. They said it was time to move on. Really? I see. I guess God must change. not really yesterday, today and forever.
ReplyDeleteDon't be polished, Sweetie, Just Be Real ~rick
This is the air I breathe is one of my very favorites too, and that is a wonderful devotional you shared. I notice that it says 'Anonymous' at the end. Does that mean it's okay for me to copy and use on one of my blogs? (I won't if you don't want me to.)
ReplyDelete