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Are You Called to be Small?

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image via alcomm | flickr creative commons

 

Friends, I’d like to ask you a question today: Why do you blog?

Not “why do people in general blog” or “why do you think you should blog”, but why do YOU, really?

Each of us started with something in mind when we first took that deep breath and nervously hit ‘publish‘. Was it merely a way to share photos of baby’s adorable toothless grin with faraway relatives? A love of words and stories that needed an outlet? The need to earn extra income to support your family? A desire to connect with others?

Whatever your reason, you made the commitment to put yourself out there, and that’s no small accomplishment. But somewhere along the way, it’s easy to get caught up in the game. You know, the one where that cunning little voice whispers “bigger is better” and “numbers are important” and “you have to keep up!” You’re stressed out, checking stats every hour, snapping at your kids and cursing under your breath wondering which link-up you’ve forgotten.

Before you realize it, you’ve tied your sense of worth to your notoriety (or lack thereof). 

Not that I would know about any of that. Ahem.

As one recovering comparison-junkie to another, I sympathize. It’s tempting to believe success lies in your number of followers, comments, sponsors or re-tweets. If your blog is any good, it will grow. Right?

Maybe — or maybe not.

As Christians, we believe God has a plan for our lives. Are you ready to consider that His plan might look different than you thought? Friends, I want to encourage you that you just might be called to be small. On purpose. For your blessing and His glory.

A small bird perching on a branch

image via phonton | flickr creative commons


God can do amazing things through your small blog that might never happen at a bigger blog.

Your intimate platform can allow you to connect personally with your readers, build real relationships and touch hearts in ways no overflowing comment box ever could. Your blog’s compact size can be the very thing that makes you approachable. Some of your readers may even become real-life friends. (I can tell you from experience, it’s true!)

I’ve had the amazing privilege to petition the throne of God on behalf of my readers, interceding for them personally in the presence of our Abba Father. This isn’t small, friends, it’s HUGE. 

As you prayerfully consider His plan for your blog (and your life), I hope you’ll remember this: No amount of fame or accolade will truly satisfy until you grasp the truth that you are Christ’s beloved. Your worth lies in His unending love for you, not in your stats or followers. You were bought with the shed blood of Christ, adopted into His family, and He has a plan for you.

It’s taken me a while to get to this point, but I honestly don’t want to be a mega-blogger anymore. I love the interaction and connection I have with my readers. I love recognizing the names and avatars that pop up in my comment box, and knowing the stories that accompany so many of the faces. I have a busy life and a family that needs my attention. (And honestly? Who can keep up with 200+ comments on a post anyway?)

Sweet sisters, don’t shortchange yourself by chasing someone else’s version of success. Give your blog over to Him and enjoy the bountiful blessings God has planned for you.

 

So, tell me, friends — why do YOU blog?

Jana Driggers is an ordinary woman grateful for the extraordinary grace of her Heavenly Father. She loves discovering God’s grace in the everyday mess and longs for a quiet moment to sit at Jesus’ feet. You can usually find her in the carpool lane, singing loudly and embarrassing her kids. Jana writes about faith, family, and encouragement for the journey at Grace for My Mess, and is a contributor to Sisters In Bloom.

Comments

  1. girlfriend, you know I love this post. I love your heart, your focus on what matters most. It’s not numbers or “likes”, it’s not blog stats or RT’s on twitter, it’s the people who come by, who share their hearts, the ones at your comment table whom you can serve and feed and nourish. What good is any of this if we’re chasing anything other than becoming more like Christ, and learning to serve and build relationships… Thank youf ro challenging me to look deep and trust god with my blog, with my LIFE. Love you. 

    • Oh thank you for your sweet words, my friend. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hullabaloo and lose sight of the living, breathing soul behind each comment or page view. It’s such a privilege to connect with a stranger (even just one) and share your heart! Thank you for being a faithful friend and encourager, Kris — you know I love you! XOXO

  2. Beautiful truth!  My heart has had to take this journey too.  It’s not about numbers, it’s about sharing the message and passions God has placed inside of us (at least it is for me)  I want to encourage others, I want to pass on hope to others, and if the plan is to stay small that’s okay.  I just want to be obedient. 

    • Oh Eileen, you’re so wise to keep your focus on Christ! I agree — I want to pass hope along to others, even if it’s just one person. When we give our blogs to God and do our best to honor Him with what we’ve been given, He can use us to impact others. He will bless your obedience, sister, in ways that extend beyond the limitations of your blog. Thank you for commenting and for staying the course in your pursuit of His will.

  3. Jana,
    This is exactly what I needed to read this morning.
    It definitely seems that even though I didn’t start out blogging for numbers and recognition, it is difficult not to desire those things.
    Your words have great meaning here.
    Thank you, friend.

  5. Jana, I was just talking to my husband about this very topic this week!  I was sharing with him that I feel like I’m writing to the air and he gently reminded me that the reason I started my blog in the beginning was to write what I wanted…to have an outlet for my thoughts, recipes, etc.  It has changed a bit in that I am writing about rosacea now because I hope to be an encouragement to others with this skin condition (and I felt the Lord’s leading in that – I mean, who wants to share that their skin at 43 years old looks like an acne fest???).

    Thank you once again for the reminder about blogging for the reason the Lord wants me to blog and nothing else. 

    Blessings to you!

    • Oh Susan, you are such a gem! You’ve encouraged me on many occasions. I love how freely you love and share. God is honored in that, and is well pleased with your obedience, sister. Sending big hugs your way today. 🙂

    •  I too am struggling with rosacea and would love to follow your blog. I don’t know the rules as far as post blog addresses on this site but if there is a way for you to share I would like to read your posts.

      • Hi, Jane! Since you asked, Susan’s blog is called Busy Little Homemaker: http://busylilhomemaker.com/   I’m sure you’ll find some great information and encouragement there. Thanks for stopping by today!

  6. Perfect, just perfect. I have a small blog, and If I get five comments, It is a big day!! But just as you said, it gives me an opportunity to talk with each person and to pray for them.

    I blog, because If I could not get these words out I would explode!  I blog because I love community and talking to others.  I would not mind a more people to talk with. But I will not “despise the day of small beginnings”  Zechariah 4:9

    • “If I could not get these words out I would explode” >> I so understand this! My heart lies in community, too, and I love that community can happen even in the midst of just a few hearts. Actually, I think it happens *best* with just a few hearts. 🙂 

      Love that verse in Zephaniah, and love your sweet words here. Thank you, Diane.

  7. Thanks, Jana. This spoke to me today, and I’m going to bookmark it and keep reading it. I think part of the “bigger” is that you want your size/following/whatever to reflect your efforts. But Diane had a great post earlier this week and she shared Zech 4:9. it reminded me that, in God’s economy, sometimes the little things can be pretty significant in His hands. Like the loaves and fishes 🙂
    Hugs from VA!

    • I agree, Susan — we do want our outcome to reflect our efforts. I’ve been there, too. Isn’t it wonderful how God sometimes does more than what we can see? It’s like getting a belated birthday gift, and yes, it’s significant in His hands. 

      I’m so grateful for you today, friend! Sending hugs right back at you from Texas. 🙂

  9. I Blog because I feel like God has given me a writing voice that people seem to enjoy reading.  I decided a few months ago that I am writing my blog for me and my circle of friends.  If someone else wants to read, more power to them.  But I am not going to get all up in tracking my statistics and readership and other measurable points of blogginess.  I’m going for the immeasurable – joy,  humor, a thought that might bring someone closer in their walk with God.

    • Amen, Terri! The trappings of ‘blogginess’ (love that!) can really steal your joy if you let them. I’m proud of you for stepping back and putting the noise in its place. Bless you, friend!

  10. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for this post!!!!  It is exactly what I needed this week.  I blog because I needed an outlet for my life.  As a mother of an autistic adult child that needs 24/7 care, a mother of a college daughter moving out on her own, and a wife of 20 years I needed to find out who I am – writing is one way I do so.  I started my blog just for me but through the year that I have been blogging, I have come to connect with many women who have become very important to me. 

    • Oh Veronica, you are brave and strong, friend. God has entrusted so much to you, and He will be faithful to sustain you and be your Jehovah Jireh, your Provider. You do need an outlet, and blogging is a great way to work through the things happening in your life. By journaling all He is revealing to you — all the struggles and little victories — you’ll have a rich history of God’s faithfulness to look back at. What a treasure! Praying for you today as you press into Him.

  11. I was just asking God this very question this week.  I started blogging because of my husband’s prodding in August last year.  I have (insert whisper) 25 followers…maybe?  I look at these beautiful elaborate blogs and the insecurity I thought was long past comes rushing back.  
    I do love to write about God’s word.  I am a discipler at heart, I have 7 women that I mentor and LOVE LOVE LOVE.  I lead a Bible study on Monday night’s at my home and love on a group of 10 brand new mommies.  I tell all of them that I am just one in the fire-line.  What I receive, I pass along.
    I write because I love the revelations inside God’s word and I want to be a part of igniting that love inside others. 
    But, yes, I question why I am doing this when so many other do it to a much bigger scope.

    • (whispering back) Twenty five is a beautiful number, friend. Do you realize what that would look like if they all showed up at your house? Seriously. It would be a big crowd! Keep doing your thing and loving on those ladies, especially the harried new mamas. What a wonderful ministry you have!

  12. I am a small blogger but with awesome readers!  It’s the few far and in between comments or emails that make it all worth it. 

    Sharing His Word is HUGE!

    Thanks for your encouragement today, Jana!

    • Hey, Jill! So happy to see you here, friend! You DO have awesome readers. 😉  Hope I can connect with you again this August at the mini-conference! 

  13. Oh my – this post (and most your posts) speak right to this woman’s heart!  Thank you for these words.

    I blog because I feel that I have started to realize the blessings He showers over me on a daily basis (momentary basis) and I want to share it with the world.  I blog to pass along great books, beautiful songs, amazing podcasts and heartwarming stories to those around me.  I need to remember that HE has a plan for me and for my blog – and every once in a while I get a message from a friend that tells me how they were blessed through my writing….that is the best gift and the EXACT reason I write.

    Thank you!

    • I’m so glad you’ve found your reason, Sarah! It’s so fun to bless someone else by sharing the thoughts, books, songs and stories that touch our hearts. What a great ministry you have! 

  14. My reasons for blogging are various.. I want to encourage others, I want to share our homeschool adventures, I want to share what the Lord shows me in His word, I want to share photo’s and I want to share with you what I am reading and other things. I need an outlet for my creativity and this has been the best thing for me. yeah sure I would LOVE to be a big blogger, I would also love to make money off of my blog but right now I know I am in a learning process and if I remain a small blogger I am ok with that. 🙂 Thanks for this post. 

    • I completely understand that, Dianna. It sounds like you have a lot to offer your readers! 🙂 I think at some point most of us (myself included) have dreamed about growing our blogs, maybe even making a profit. I’m just glad you’re happy with your blog and are willing to let God grow it as He sees fit. His plan is always the right size. Blessings!

  15. Yes! This is so true! I have developed real friendships through my little space. Just like the body of Christ has different gifts, each one important, so too our blogs are going to be used differently. Thanks for this!

    • Absolutely, Christina. I think I’m a bit like an elbow in the body of Christ: flexible, not particularly noteworthy on my own, yet God can do important things through me when I show up for the job He’s appointed me. Besides, the body already has a mouth; if I try to fit into someone else’s role, we’re going to look pretty silly.  😉

  16. Excellent post! I started blogging a year ago when I felt God leading me to host online Bible studies. God has opened up additional opportunities for which I am thankful. But I try to keep the studies in front of me as my purpose for blogging. I love to write for His kingdom, but it’s so easy to compare myself to others and get caught up in trying to do more. The problem with always trying to do more is else something usually suffers. So, I’m learning that small is just fine. I need to focus on what God has given me to do, and if He says the time is right and I’m ready, He’ll give me more to do.   
    God bless,
    Laura

    • “I need to focus on what God has given me to do, and if He says the time is right and I’m ready, He’ll give me more to do.” Yes! Well said, Laura. I love that you host online Bible studies! That’s an important ministry, and not one to be downgraded. Bless you as you serve Him, sister!

    • Thank you, sweet friend. I love that we met through Twitter, then moved it to our blogs, and now you’re here! See — small blog power! 🙂 Have a great weekend.

  18. Jana, your wise words have encouraged me yet again. It’s because of the encouragement of friends like you I’ve found peace in being a small blogger. I blog about my passions with the prayer that others are encouraged to look to Jesus when they read it. I’ve also come to realize that I want to pursue writing more, not just maintaining my blog. Whether it be guest posting on other blogs, eventually becoming a regular contributor to other blogs, and the ultimate scary yet obvious calling of God to write books. Blogging has become a rewarding part of the journey where I’ve developed some fantastic relationships.

    • You are such a lighthouse of encouragement, Kelly! I love your heart, your faith and your dedication to the path God has drawn for you. I’m so glad God crossed our paths last year! Keep writing, girl — you can do this!

  19. Love, love, love this!  And of course it is perfect timing.  (As is everything He does is!)  Thanks for the reminder! 

    I have only just started blogging although I’ve wanted to do it for a long time.  I blog so that I can be more intentional in my walk and growth in Jesus. I do admit there is always that little niggling thought in the back of my brain that perhaps I’ll be a famous blogger (LOL), I really am happy to just have my friends and family read my blog so they can see what God is doing in my life.

    • To be more intentional in your walk and growth >> YES! This is absolutely vital. When you’re tending your faith, you’re equipping yourself to be used in mighty ways. I’m so glad you stepped into the big ol’ blogging world, Mindy! Thank you for sharing your heart with us today.

  20. I started blogging as a way to keep family and friends updated on my life as my husband and I moved about 10 hours away.

    But recently I started a new blog for various reasons. I needed some accountability for goals I set for myself. I needed an outlet. Some extra money would be helpful since I stay at home. But mostly I think I desired the connection with the people. I read a lot of blogs and always hear the authors talking about the great friends they’ve made through blogging. I wanted that.

    Thanks for writing this. It’s exactly what I needed to hear today.

    • Blogging can be great for keeping in touch with friends and family and can really help you find a community while you’re adjusting to a new city. I love that you’re using your blog to keep yourself accountable! Keep sharing and I know you’ll find your “tribe”, Mary Beth. ((hugs))

  21. I am not even a blogger yet but I have been following “allume” wondering if the time is right.  Even though i haven’t started blogging this post speaks to my heart as a Mom, a Christian woman involved in church ministry, a 50+ woman wondering if life has passed me by, pretty much every area of my life.  
    “No amount of fame or accolade will truly satisfy until you grasp the truth that you are Christ’s beloved.”
    These words are a salve for my soul today and I thank you for their powerful reminder.

    • Jane, I’m knocking on the door of 60, been married almost 40 years, and have three married children, 7 grandchildren, and I retired from nursing 2 years ago.
       The words are there, He will help you write them! go for it! You never know when your words are just the right words for that one person who stops to read it that day! God always uses a willing heart!

    • Oh thank you, Jane. It makes me so sad to see talented writers feel as if they’re not “good enough” because their blogs are smallish. Jesus isn’t impressed with stats — He just wants our hearts, and it sounds like yours is in the right place. If you do choose to start up a blog, I’d love to come visit you. 🙂

      PS – life hasn’t passed you by, because Jesus is the Way, Truth and Life, and He has a plan for you, sister. This may just be the perfect time for Him to use your wisdom and experience to bless others around you. ((hugs))

  22. Perfectly said!

    When we lose sight of why we blog and focus on the stats and being important and big, we lose ourselves.
    I blog to help women build stronger and more satisfying relationships in their lives. Recently, though, I have come to realize that there is still work to be done behind those relationships with others, and that is our relationships with ourselves.

    I think so many women don’t know how to be happy, what to look for or at, or don’t even recognize that the path to happiness flows from faith. One of my goals is to help change that.

    I have found that the more attuned I am to God’s direction in my writing, the “easier” it is, because I am following his lead, not my desires. I believe that he will lead where he wants me to go, whatever the direction or place, and I just have to swallow my fears and trust him.

    • Hey Kim – so good to see you here! 😉  Yes, yes — so many people are looking for something outside themselves to make them happy. Oh, that we would all realize how much we are loved, and that He gives joy that doesn’t wax and wane with the number of followers, page views or RTs. I love what you’re doing at your blog — your enthusiasm is contagious, Kim! Have a great weekend, friend. 

  23. My story…God’s glory. That’s why I blog. When I get an email from someone who says my words have encouraged their heart I know God is using my story to touch others and that’s why I continue to write. Thank you for this powerful reminder that some of us are called to be small.  

    • God’s story never gets old, can never be overshadowed. I love how He says His word “will not return empty” (Isaiah 55:11). Keep sharing your story, friend. He can use your little light to pierce the darkness exactly where He knows it’s needed.  How beautiful is that?  

  24. Thankful for my tiny little blog that God used to cross our paths. You have so much talent and wisdom to share. I have to remind myself that when God called me to blog that He didn’t call me to be famous or to have thousands of followers. He simply called me to write down the words that He so graciously shares with me. Sometimes I let my words get in the way. Thanks for helping me to keep things in check. We can all use some fresh perspective now and then.

    • You’re a mighty blogger in disguise, my friend, and I love your alter ego. 🙂  God is working in and through you, revealing deep truths and building your faith. Sometimes we all let our words get in the way, but I’m ever grateful that His grace gives second chances and can work even through the mess. Sending hugs and a big Route 44 for you today, sweet Tracey.  XO

  26. Oh wow! Just what I needed to hear!! I hav a small blog and mostly don’t get any comments but when I do i feel so blessed to reach out, even just to one person. I was diagnosed with a deadly non-curable disease 4 years ago and THAT is when I started blogging my journey of faith through struggle. The Lord has done amazing things in my life! I was told I could die in 2 years, and here I am four years later!! I write to encourage others that no matter what you’re faced with, the Lord is there for you. I write, not often but just enough, I think. :o)

    • “I was told I could die in 2 years, and here I am four years later!” Praise God for all He’s doing in your life, Lizzie! Yes, He is here in and through all things. He knows the number of your days and will thwart those doctors’ predictions as long as He sees fit! Rejoicing with you today!

  27. I blog because I love to connect with women and minister to them for God’s glory.  I blog because I love all things beautiful and love to inspire people by what inspires me… the little things in life.  I blog because He has called me to it.  Love you!

  28. This is wonderful. There are days I wished that I had a small following to be honest. I am about to hit 100,000 on one of my facebook page and it’s overwhelming. Not the kind where I jump for joy but the one that causes me to be anxious and wonder how do I do this.
    With the small following before I was able to comment, reach out, encourage those that comment one on one. Now I have thousands of people liking my status. I can’t do that because the notification icon will go off every minute. 🙂
    There are pros and cons to having a big following. 🙂 It’s not always easy as it seems. You definitely have a lot more critique but at the same time you have a lot of those that reach out to you and tell you what an amazing job you’re doing. Okay, I’m done venting! lol

    • Janice, thank you for taking the time to share your heart here. It is valued more than you know. 🙂

      I think it’s really important for all of us to understand that we ought not to be offended if we don’t get the response back we desire. It just isn’t feasible, you know? That doesn’t mean that someone is less liked because a “bigger” blogger can’t respond to everyone. It’s just life. We have to accept that and be mentored, encouraged, inspired, etc. from afar. 🙂

      Did what I type make any sense? lol

    • I’m so glad you shared your perspective, Janice. It’s good to view the blogosphere from both sides. I can imagine how hard you must work to keep up with everything! I agree with what Christin said, and I think most people probably understand that it’s just too much to reply to everyone when you have that large a following. Thank you for helping us to balance out this discussion with an honest look at what it takes to have such a popular blog. Bless you, sister!

  29. I love this post.  I blog because I can’t help myself.  All of the things I love are encompassed in blogging – writing, connecting, technology, fun.  I’ve done it for a long time and I love doing it.  I may be small but my words are mighty!  I love when my little piece of the blogging universe touches someone else.  It’s great!  Thank you for your post!

    • “I blog because I can’t help myself.” >> I love this, Debi! Yes, small can still be mighty. Amen! Thanks for your comment. 

  30. I started blogging to share my story of immigrating from my southern roots of North Carolina to my northern husband in Ontario, Canada, and it has become so much more! It is where I go when I’m struggling. Apparently I often write better than I talk 🙂 I think more deeply and dive deep into the why’s and the how’s of life and my daily walk with the Lord. I am so grateful for this post. I am a very small blog, I believe I have 7 followers, and recently I have been looking at all these bigger blogs with longing. But this has definitely helped me to continually put things in perspective. It has reminded me that God asked me to write, not to be big, but to write. So that’s just what I’ll do, I’ll write. Thanks so much for this reminder and encouragement, what a blessing these words are!

    • I think a lot of us would agree with that “writing better than you speak” thing. 😉 Writing out my thoughts forces me to really dig deep and think about what I’m saying. I love that you said God has only asked you to write, not to be big. Yes! He is glorified when we just say ‘yes” to Him without condition. I’m so glad you shared with us here today!

  31. I blog to script the story of a woman who faces infertility, has traveled to many different cultures, who loves to take photographs and who is in awe of a God who takes her messy, broken-up pieces and creates beauty. 

    But most of all, it is as my blog header says… 
    …it’s all because I have Him. The One who knows every ounce of sadness in the
    furthest corners of my heart. The One who loves me with all the love that my
    aching-self screams for. The One who created me, who found me, who redeemed me,
    who breathed His own life into my dead spirit and gave me hope. Jesus.

    • Beautiful, Natasha. I can tell you pour your heart and soul into your writing. He can turn your hurts into a beautiful kaleidoscope that reflects His grace and abounding love. So grateful you chose to share with us today, friend. ((hugs))

  32. Oh, my.  I must admit that yes, I had forgotten this.  Thank you for reminding me that my blog is about Him and not about me (okay, maybe a little about me).  Or I should say what He’s doing in me.  I will be sharing this w/ my hubby so he can keep me accountable.  I may regret that someday…  hee, hee.

    • Heh heh! I know what you mean, Jamie. 😉  Here’s to accountability — and a gracious Father who thinks you’re fabulous! 

  33. I am definitely a “small” blog and I am quite okay with it. I’m excited about the prospect of turning my little spot on the web as a place to grow community. I love finding other women who are in similar seasons as mine and also those who have gone before me so that I can learn from the wisdom they share. I see the “small” blog as an opportunity to grow Titus 2 relationships.

  34.  Great post with a truly humble and godly perspective.  Thanks for the warm reminder!

    • Thank you, Elisa. I think I needed this reminder as much as anyone. So glad we can glorify Him together.

  35. Amen! This post when I read it, made me want to cry, because it is in that satisfaction of being all we can right now- right in the moment, is all we need to do.  Being obedient is all that God asks of us.  One day I realized that my blog was like a small church and God spoke to me about ministering and serving to the audience that God had brought into my space.

    I love you!

    • Oh yes, dear friend, being obedient is all He asks of us. If only one or two people showed up at our doorstep for a Bible study or get-together, we would be honored to serve them. In His wisdom, I think God sometimes keeps things small so we will be able to make the heart-connections we crave. 

      I’m so grateful for you, Denise, and your servant leadership. You bless so many every day, sister. Thank you for your sweet words today. Love you! XO

  37. Why do I blog? I am compelled to write. Since I started writing poetry when I was 14 it hasn’t stopped. I used to think I wanted to write “The Great American Novel” but my thoughts are all over the place; and unless that novel was made up of entirely disconnected vignettes I’m sunk in that department. Instead, over the years I’ve journaled my life. Through pregnancies, baby books, prayer books- really blank books where I just poured my heart out, essays, etc. I’ve even started a book of letters to my oldest grandchild to bind and give to him when he graduates from high school.
    You get the point. I discovered blogging and have been a watcher for a while, until I retired a couple of years ago. Since then I kept mulling over what my blog would look like, then took the plunge and though I’m not entirely happy with the appearance, I’m happy with the content. 
    God has put these words in me to share with my part of His world- they won’t stay inside. Even if there was no audience, I would continue to write. 
    Blogging has offered me a venue that fits me. I write what I need to get out, when I need it to get out and I don’t have to go through anyone, no editor, no mark up lines or paras highlighted, no publisher wanting it yesterday, no pressure to top what I wrote before. God designed blogging and me for each other!
    I’m just now getting my feet wet in the blogosphere at large. The questions and blogs posted here and the questions on Better Writer have truly challenged my thinking, opened doors and windows, and opened a few pandora’s boxes as well. Some subjects I’ve just never thought about relating to my blogging: income, selfish motivations, changing tense, etc. 
    I keep thinking about a dinner my husband and I had with a co-worker and his wife one evening. The co-worker was from England (and England’s where my heart beats). And, we got to talking about God, church, beliefs. Neither of them were believers, she had gone to catholic school as a child with her brothers. One of them got as far away as he could from organized religion and the other embraced belief in Christ. She “would love to have something to believe in like you do”. Just wasn’t sure. He, on the other hand, did not believe-though he thought “it would be nice to have somewhere where we belonged”. We talked on for a while about believers vs non-believers and  the bad behavior of them all; and all I could reply was that I wanted to be the best representation of Jesus that I could be to the world because I never knew when I would be the only impression that someone would ever see of Him. That’s my purpose in my blogging as well. I am compelled!

    • A series of “entirely disconnected vignettes” — yep, that sounds like my novel, too. 😉 

      I love how you’ve realized you have a passion for writing and would write no matter the circumstances. What an amazing chance you had to show Jesus to your friends! I’m sure that conversation happened by more than just coincidence. Being the best representation of Jesus we can be — yes, this is paramount. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences here today, Nancy. I enjoyed it so much!

  38. Oh my, do I wrestle with these things. I have even had to forbid myself from stat-checking for awhile. It is so important to come back to the reality of who we are in Christ when we get caught up in the numbers …  
    Here are a few of my thoughts, born of days like that!

    Why do I blog?  
    To share the grace I have been given by God in Jesus.

    To encourage others unto love and good deeds.

    To prove weakness and point to His strength.

    To entertain.

    Lord free me from constant striving to achieve. Fix my
    eyes on You, that I might know my worth is in Your grace and gifts to me, in my
    identity as your child, and not in anything I may or may not do in this life. I
    am first of all and forever Your daughter. Fill me with gratitude and
    contentment in that.

     

    You have given me a gift with words.  Guide in my use of it Lord, that it may be
    used to bless others and not for my own selfishness. Use me mightily despite
    this selfish heart that I carry, and let me see Your will, and do what Your
    love would have me do. Amen.

  39. Jana, such truth here!  I began blogging just as a outlet — I had so many words, emotions, and thoughts bottled up inside of me for years and I just let them out never really intending for a huge audience.  I just thought my family and a few friends might read what I wrote.  And then I experienced a surge in readers which does put pressure on one to “perform.”  I’m thankful that God settled me down after that and showed me that it’s not how popular your blog is or how many readers you have, it’s what you do to further His kingdom that matters.  I’m small, but the Lord gives me huge inspirations for writing and I feel His purpose is served when one person lets me know that what I wrote touched them or made them think differently.  So glad I took the time to follow you on over here today to read your post! Be blessed, my friend!

    • Oh Mama, I’m so happy to see you here! I always love seeing your little nest in my comment box. 😉

      You hold so much, Mama, and juggle it all with grace and hope. I love your faith and your heart for Christ. You’re wise to train your focus on God’s kingdom. So very grateful to meet with you here, my friend. Keep seeing Him and crafting beautiful stories. We are all the richer for your obedience. Hugs, friend!

  40. “From one comparison junkie to another” well put! Yeah, this is very timely for me. This occasionally-prone-to-behave-very-type-A gal needs to remember to chill out! It’s never been about the numbers (and it’s a good thing too! If you look at my little blog you’ll see why LOL) I gotta remember to stop COMPARING. Just do what God put on my heart to do, and just that. No really, just that! ha!

    • Yes, just that! Easier said than done, but worth every ounce of effort. I love the graphic I’ve seen that reminds me, “Comparison is the thief of joy”. Who wants that?! So thankful we can NOT compare together, Amanda. 😉

    • I just found your blog this past week, Tammy, and I love it! So glad you found encouragement here, my friend. This is just the kind of community I crave. *fist bump*

  42. God has really been working on getting my heart right in my new blogging venture, and this has been at the center of it. Thank you for this post, such a great perspective and so TRUE! 

  43. Love your heart for God and for your readers…I started my blog because I am realizing, slowly, that God made me a writer and I need to write to process and prayerfully, to encourage others…I love the friends I have met online and I pray for them as if we were friends offline.  Beautiful post, Jana…Thank you!

  44. Another great post!  I just prayed that God help me in my blogging mission as I’m calling it.  I’ve always wanted to be a writer and I stuck my toe into the blogging water.  Now I’m fully immersed, my writing has grown and I really enjoy it!  I’m not the type of person that in real life needs to be around hundreds of people, so why would I be like that in the virtual world?  I’m happy with my small following……although I have to be honest, the green monster of envy does come out when I see ‘bigger’ blogs. :]

  45. So refreshing and a great reminder as I approach my one year anniversary of Blogging. It brings me joy- Chariots of Fire style and size joy! Good points made. God, is that you speaking through Jana, to little old me? 😉 Consider the Birds…Amen. Thanks, Sister!

  46. I love that you wrote this!!!  I think most of us go through that “big blog envy” at some point or another.  

    I blog because I must.  I must write and share and connect.  I blog because I hope to reach even one person by sharing my story and how God’s working in my heart.  

    Even though it’s small, it’s opened doors I never imagined I’d even know about!  

  47. It’s funny how we as mother’s try to teach our children not to be concerned with what others are doing, stop comparing yourself to others and then we as mom constantly compare our blogs to others.  It’s so difficult not to sometimes. Great reminder that we need to keep our eyes on Christ not another person’s blog. Thank you for this reminder!

  48. I am a very small blogger and have been struggling with being okay with that and almost allowed it to stop me from writing.  I’m not a writer, I’m a relatively new Christian….my blog started out as writing about becoming a military family and gradually became more about how God is transforming my life and the life of my family.  I’m gradually learning that even if I touch the life of only one individual with my blog, that is okay.  Thank you for your beautiful words that were greatly needed!

  49. Love this post. If I get more than 1 comment I’m shocked and thrilled. I blog because I feel like I have to, that God is giving me this feeling that I need to share my words and not keep my thoughts to myself.

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