Means of Self Expression (Why Do I Want To Blog?)

Life has long been taking me down a path of discovering who I am, what my talents are, where my weakness lies, what to do with my talents and weaknesses, etc. Lately God has put me in contact with many people who have helped me take tremendous leaps and bounds toward that goal.

I love it when people speak prophetic words over me (who doesn't!). It helps me shape a picture of what God wants from me in the present moment. Please allow me to give a couple quick examples before getting to the point.

• One day, perhaps a month ago, I showed up at youth group in a dark place. I desperately needed encouragement. During worship, one of my friends pulled me aside. "God told me to talk to you today," she said. "He wants to let you know that He thinks you're beautiful, and that He loves the woman you're growing into." Her words touched my heart. But more than that, since I first held them as a treasure, they have served as a constant reminder that God has something big planned for my future. And He loves it.

• Another time, a bit longer ago. I was attending a special meeting following a missions trip. We met to encourage each other and share about our personal experiences. Almost out of the blue, someone said to me, "I saw how you acted in Mexico. You may be quiet, but you are powerful. Your maturity and love of the Lord shine through." Sometimes I have to remind myself that my life can make a difference. When I feel powerless to change the world, this is what I think of.

• Finally, my youth leader recently told me something that may have more impact on my life, in the long run, than both of those words combined. I don't know if I can call it prophetic, per se, but it must have come from God. "You're already a great writer," he told me, "you should start a blog about Catalyst." I had to sit on that one for a while. After all, I thought, I write novels, not crazy internet stuff, and I haven't journaled in years. And I'm not even funny! But slowly, I started to see the possibilities.

There are many means of self-expression out there - the fine arts, social media, blogging, face-to-face conversation. Why would I choose to blog? I think my reasons are pretty straightforward.

I want to share my feelings and experiences with other people, raw and undisguised. I want to meditate on daily life, now and for the future, that I might shape a Life Story pleasing to God. Most of all, I need feedback and encouragement. It's not easy to be a light; sometimes you need a little extra power to keep going.