Giving Voice

Giving Voice

Giving voice to concerns in times of difficulty, difference and misunderstanding can be very challenging. Using my own voice in these situations has been a long journey. Standing up for others, clarifying issues during conflict, taking responsibility are times when using my voice has been less challenging.

At work, I strive to be clear in my communication with others as I move towards improving outcomes. Recently, a new project has brought about new communication challenges. I found myself needing to use my voice to advocate for myself as well as the project. It took time for me to clearly see what I needed to give voice to, but the reality was the project depended on it. Staying quiet and working within the circumstances I was handed wasn’t going to work this time.

I struggle most with family members. In part, I don’t want to hurt someone’s feelings. Mostly, fear sets in as I don’t want to face my own feelings associated with the situation. I fear not being heard and respected for my experience and pain. I fear my words being taken out of context. And, I fear others might not care.

11-15 Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It’s a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of Christ. (Ephesians 5:11-15 MSG).

This scripture helps me see giving voice to my concerns and struggles in the light of Christ. Not using my voice means the situation or circumstance stays in darkness. For God to heal, transform and renew, it needs to be brought into the light. I need to remember that the healing and transformation may be for someone else as well as myself. I need to remember to trust God when I’m nudged to use my voice and not let fear win. Each time I do, I get stronger. My confidence grows, and healing takes place.

How have you learned to give voice in challenging situations? Has this been a journey for you, too? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.

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