In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. – Matthew 5:16
I often talk about how sharing your infertility story helps others. No one going through infertility wants anyone else to suffer, but there’s comfort in knowing you’re not the only one going through this experience.
But sharing your story also serves another purpose: glorifying God.
What exactly does that mean?
It means telling others about who is He, what He’s done, and what He will do. It means acknowledging Him as the source of everything good in your life, and as sovereign during the difficult times.
Some of us glorify God in the midst of our infertility by blogging or writing.
Others glorify God in a more private manner, not sharing their stories on the internet, but in church groups, Bible studies, coffee meetings, family dinners, or lunch dates.
I don’t think the point is how we glorify God, but that we glorify Him. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (NLT).
Do you see that phrase? Whatever you do. Allow me the liberty to paraphrase…
So whether you do IVF or IUI… do it all for the glory of God.
So whether you blog or share you story with just one friend… do it all for the glory of God.
So whether you adopt or live a childless life… do it all for the glory of God.
So whether you pursue treatment or pray for a miracle… do it all for the glory of God.
Infertility is a dark place. So many of our infertility sisters are stuck in places of hopelessness and despair. It’s not wrong to experience these emotions, but God does not want us to stay there indefinitely. If you and I have even the slightest amount of hope, faith, or light we must share it with them and with anyone who knows about our journey.
“Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:15-16 (MSG)
Let’s shine our lights, ladies.
As you pray today, ask God to help you glorify Him in circumstances and in your decisions.
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Yes! Everything we do should glorify Him and He should always get the credit and be honored. Great prayer today 🙂
So good, Lisa! Love your paraphrases.
Thanks, Amanda!
It’s been great to read your posts during this 31 Day challenge. Each one has been so thoughtful. Thanks for taking the time to share in such a compassionate way.
Thank you so much, Evangeline!
I love all this shine! Love. One of my favorite lyrics from the Chris Tomlin song Lay Me Down – Let this life shine… Beautiful!
Isn’t it all so pretty? What is it about shiny things? 🙂
I love this line: “I don’t think the point is how we glorify God, but that we glorify Him. ” This is so true for each and every person no matter what our struggle is. Thank you for being so willing to share your burden so that others can be encouraged and God can be glorified. You are in my prayers. Thank you so much for linking up with us at the #SHINEbloghop.
Thanks for the encouragement, Heather! I appreciate the prayers.
Thank you so much for sharing your heart and for linking this up at Mommy Moments last week. I don’t always have time to read all of the posts linked up, but this one caught my eye as the topic is very near to my heart. I absolutely love and admire your positive attitude and your heart to glorify the Lord in the midst of difficult circumstances. Keep trusting Him dear sister!
Thank you, Faith!
This caught my eye from the Mama Moments Monday link up. I have someone that I pray for several times a day about this. Thank you for sharing your story and being an encouragement to others!
Thanks, Erin. And thanks for praying for your friend who is going through this!