I realized this week that I like to talk. I’ve had laryngitis the past two days, and I didn’t like not being able to verbalize what I was thinking. I learned several things about myself from this situation.
- I like to interact with people. When I can’t, I feel isolated.
- I like to sing out loud with worship music in the car. It’s frustrating when I have to keep quiet.
- I need others. Laryngitis isn’t easy for someone who teaches 2-3 times a week. Thankfully, the Lord knew months ago when I scheduled guest teachers that I wouldn’t be able to teach this week. He provided not only the teacher, but people who would facilitate the leaders’ meetings and large group times for me. And when I just couldn’t hold it in, I’d squeak out a few words, and then resign myself to letting the person sitting beside me read my answer I had written down.
All this to say – God reminded me this week that He designed us for community, not to live in isolation. We need one another – for many reasons.
- to lift us up when we are weak
- to help us carry out our “job” when we can’t due to circumstances out of our control
- to spur us on when we get discouraged and want to quit
- to speak truth to us
- to hold us accountable
- to pray for us
Losing my voice also taught me to listen better – to others and to God. I couldn’t talk, so I had to be quiet and listen. This was good for me in many ways.
Today, I’m starting to get my voice back, and I’m thankful for the things God showed me this week in this situation. Most of all, I’m thankful for the community God has placed me in.
“Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more, as you see the day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25
How has God used community in your life recently?
Glad your voice has returned, Crickett. 🙂 We just switched church campuses due to a move across town. It’s a totally new community, but it’s “our” community in that we are brothers and sisters in Christ. Nothing compares to the bond we have in Him.
Thanks, Cathy! It’s good to be able to talk again. I’ll be praying for a quick adjustment to a “new church community.” You’re right – nothing compares to our bond in Christ.
We all need community. Thanks for reminding us, Crickett! Also, this is the second time I’ve read about listening more. Hmm, perhaps God is speaking to me.
Hmmm. Maybe He is, Beckie. But I hope you don’t have to lose your voice like I did ?
I went to a conference at which Beth Moore said something like, “You know you’re a teacher when you have to tell someone about what you learned.” I guess even we teachers need to stop teaching sometimes!
Great point, Heather!