I endeavor to create an article for my blog, “Author Inspirations,” at least once a month. In October, I would ask myself “What inspiration do I have right now?” A thought or two might flitter across my consciousness, but nothing I could latch on to. That ball effectively dropped as the month expired, I’m left wondering how do you inspire others when you yourself are not feeling inspired?
As I mulled this over the answer that came was just show up. A person can rarely know what an encouragement their presence alone can be. Let’s be honest, Job’s friends were far better at comforting him, as he worked through his grief, when they were silent than when they spoke up. Just being a constant in someone’s life can be the light they are looking for. Knowing they are not alone can give someone the strength they need to carry on in their journey. Look at Jesus in Matthew 26:36, Then Jesus went with them[disciples] to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.” The disciples didn’t know the gravity of the moment or what they could do or say to comfort Jesus, but all he asked of them was to be there.
It’s hard when you feel like you have nothing to offer to make yourself show up. That very thought causes many to stay where they are and not contribute. While it is true that it is hard to fill others when your cup is empty, sometimes an honest “Hey, I come with nothing, but if that’s what you need them I’m here,” can make a difference. Truly, at times God is able to do far more with that kind of person than someone who believes they have all the answers. It becomes less of “this is what I can do” and more “God is able to do work through me”; a Matthew 10:19 (God will give you the right words at the right time.) or Psalms 141:3 (Take control of what I say, O LORD, and guard my lips.) moment.
Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, Ephesians 3:20
Let us see clearly that inspiration takes many forms. Not all ministry comes from the pulpit. Not all leadership is at the top of an organization. Where are you being called to show up? At church? At work? In your family? Do you feel a lack of inspiration keeping you stalled in a holding pattern that is doing no one any good? Maybe it is time to just step up with nothing to offer but yourself, and trust that you are enough. Be present for others. You don’t have to have all the answers; lean into the One who does.
Trust GOD from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for GOD’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Don’t assume that you know it all. Proverbs 3:5-7 (The Message)
Author Dellaca Ferraiz Reynolds 