Feeling Insignificant?

“You, Lord, give perfect peace even in turmoil to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you.” Isaiah 26:3 

“Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” – Rumi

Today my sprinkler system wasn’t working and I was not peaceful by any stretch. I prayed that my Father would help me as I searched the instructions (clear as mud!) and pushed buttons. It is working now and I’m still not sure why. I will always be computer-challenged. It’s not natural for me. I’m not detail-oriented. I don’t like repetition. Board meetings? I consider them torture. I’m thankful our Father made people who look forward to these chores with enthusiasm. I admire them greatly!

Why did my Father make me this way? I marvel at those who can heal a broken arm, fly a jet, discuss quantum physics and budget to the penny. Then I feel really bad about who I am and question my significance.  My talents and role in the Big Picture seems very doubtful at best. A big fat barrier to love, purpose and truth. Jesus washed feet. There’s a proper attitude in love.

What is this feeling about? Comparing? Do I matter? What good thing do I contribute? What do I need to learn? We all were beginners at some time. It’s very helpful if one has a strong, encouraging support system but many things can keep us isolated at times. Another opportunity? Our Father made us to care for each other, encourage each other but there are times it’s not there. Jesus went alone to pray many times.

Time to prayerfully make a list. What do those I trust tell me I’m good at? What gives me joy? What comes almost effortlessly? What still small voice encourages me?  What did I love as a child?  What is my passion? No self-minimizing allowed. No comparing allowed. Put money on the back-burner for now. And prayer. Return to this when discouraged or feeling alone and down. Our role may change throughout our lifetimes.  

Musings

By the poet, Maggie Smith:

Expect that what you tend to will grow.

Expect that what you feed with your care and attention,

What you shine your light on, will thrive.

Choose Wisely.

Today we need to take inventory of the gifts our Father has given us so that we may thrive, others may thrive and the kingdom may thrive. It’s there. It’s treasure. It’s joy. Perfect peace who puts their trust in the Lord.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank you for who we are and what talents we use for your purpose. We stumble over feelings of being insignificant. Your son died for us so we know we’re significant. Father thank you for our part in your Kingdom.  Even the struggle has purpose.

Help us to seek rewards and approval from you, Father. Encourage us. Ignite us and more importantly, remind us of your great love when feeling insignificant.

Amen.