“And then he told them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.’” — Mark 16:15
I’m beginning to think those first four years when our youngest didn’t sleep through the night—Cole woke up repeatedly for the first four years of his life—were preparing me for my sleep pattern later on.
Back then I often prayed one verse over him. One exhausted night I asked, “Lord, give me a scripture to pray over this boy.” He led me to Psalm 127:2b: “He brings sleep to those He loves.” Although it was taken out of context, I was desperate and prayed, “Lord, I know you love Cole. He is precious in your sight. I’m tired, and he needs to sleep soundly. You say You will bring sleep to those You love. Please let Cole sleep. Amen.” And he did. I prayed that verse over and over.
This morning I found myself praying the same words again—only this time for myself. God waking me early is not unusual, and usually a gift: quiet time with my Savior, bringing others before Him, and feeling nudges about the urgency to share Jesus. But sometimes I just want a solid night’s rest and to wake to morning light.
God reminded me to rest in Him. After praying and mindlessly scrolling social media, I opened my email. Every Friday I look forward to Jennifer Rothschild’s podcast notice. I don’t usually listen right away, but today I hit play—and it felt like God hit play inside me.
Lately I’ve wrestled with self-doubt: “Do I post too many journal entries? Do I share too much on social media?” God has been answering clearly: “No—keep sharing. You are sharing about Me, and that is your calling.”
Listening to Dr. Mark Yarborough on Jennifer’s podcast felt like Jesus with a megaphone saying, “Go! Share!”
Mark 16:15 contains the Great Commission: Jesus’ command to those who believe in Him to proclaim the Good News to everyone. Romans 1:16–17 reminds us why we should never be ashamed of that message: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes… The righteous will live by faith.”
Friend, bluntly: get over yourself. This life isn’t about you. Live with a glory-mindset and don’t be ashamed or hesitant to share Jesus.
Lord, give us boldness—to write, speak, and live boldly for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Live the Philippians 1:20 life: “For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ… And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.”
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie