Do we truly matter? Does my life count? Can I really make a difference? How can God use me? Have any of those questions reverberated through your mind? I’ve constantly questioned my own value and impact many times. I’m passionate about women walking in their identity and realizing they are on this earth at this time on a divine mission for Christ.
Growing up in the church, I repeatedly heard dozens of sermons or Bible study lessons ranging from “God created you for a purpose” to “We each have our own gifts and talents to serve others” to “We’re all part of the body of Christ.” I discovered the perfect illustration that encapsulates our uniqueness and individuality.
I’m sure your children have played with light sticks, necklaces and bracelets. Don’t you love them? Such a fun novelty item for children playing outside or in the fall when we go trick or treating. I’ve watched children pop them around their neck and race to extinguish all light in the room so they could glow with brilliance.
Recently, we used these necklaces at a conference, and some were accidentally ignited without our knowledge. One night as I was sorting and organizing all of our supplies, I dropped all the extras on the office floor to go in search of a storage box. I turned off the light as I exited the room. Did I receive a surprise upon returning! I stopped in amazement at the gleaming light coming from all the different colored sticks.
Imagine each of us as a light stick. We’re all different, yet so beautiful. God wants to use every single color and hue to reach a hurting world. When we join together and use our gifts to build His Kingdom, there is no containing the radiance of light He shines through us. Have you snapped your light stick so you can glow?
I stood there and stared in awe for at least 15 minutes because it was so magnificent. I imagine God does the same thing when He sees us shining so brilliantly.
About Shelley Pulliam
Howdy! (A girl from Oklahoma has to use this as her greeting) I’m Shelley Pulliam, executive director of Arise Ministries and former teacher of hormone-filled 8th graders. But my real claim to fame rests in my award as second grade spelling bee champ and my recent gun-handling skills as I train to competition shoot. It helps me be on guard when Satan comes knocking. I’m a voracious reader and can frequently be found at the theater enjoying movie marathons where my record stands at six in one day. I’m a single, never married, who loves to pour into children at every opportunity. Let me know if you have any for sale. You can connect with me on social media. https://www.instagram.com/shelleypulliam/