This is our B moment. Our moment to be still…to be fed by the Word of God…to be grateful.
Scripture reference: Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
Today, I am thinking about how our testimony doesn’t really start until we are told “no.”
Yesterday I talked about how closed doors always seem to precede our open doors. Then, I shared the story about a newly published author who was told “no” thirteen times before she finally signed her publishing deal.
I am still thinking about this because we know that the story ends with a “yes,” but “yes” is not her testimony. This new author’s testimony is all the times she was told “no,” and what inspired her to persevere through thirteen difficult “no’s” before she received one “yes.”
When I turn to the Scriptures, I think about Moses going before Pharaoh to ask him to release the Israelites from slavery. Moses’ situation was even more challenging in some ways because on several occasions, he would make the case to Pharaoh that the Israelites should be freed, and Pharaoh would actually respond with a “yes.” However, God would soon after harden his heart, and Pharaoh’s “yes” would ultimately become a “no.”
It is so terrible when you are told “yes” and get your hopes up, only to be eventually told “no.” This happened to Moses ten times.
Yet here’s the key: he trusted God at every “no.” That is how he finally got to his “yes.” He trusted that God would grant him that “yes” one day.
Therefore, let us stay the course for a beautiful testimony by clinging to these words: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
Please share this reflection as others desire to be inspired.
So today, know that the “no’s” you hear are only giving you a greater testimony.
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