The Messy Middle

The Messy Middle

God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important.

“I’ve been creeping on you these last two years,” she said, before quickly adding, “in the very best way, of course.”

She had approached me in the local coffee shop, and I set aside my laptop so I could listen to her story—one of trusting God during a scary career change. She emerged from that experience, having found peace and joy and abundant life by making choices that were best for her family—without regard for how our culture defines feminine success.

It turns out she and I were on a similar journey of quitting long-term careers for a completely new thing at the same time. I had publicly shared part of my story while I was in the midst of the journey, never pretending that I had it figured out, or that God had snapped his fingers and moved me from point A to Z with no struggle on my end. Through hearing my story, she found encouragement in her own journey. We spent several minutes comparing notes and acknowledging the immense goodness of God until her friend arrived and we parted ways.

Vulnerability. I hate that word. I hate being asked to allow others to see my imperfections and my struggles. But I’ve watched God move mightily through the hardest parts of my story so many times that I no longer fight it. I’ve learned that we are all sick to death of pretending that nothing is ever hard or wrong or broken, and that others find encouragement when they realize they are not the only ones secretly struggling.

There is a careful balance to be struck. While I would caution against broadcasting every weakness to the whole world (the Scripture about not casting your pearls before swine comes to mind), we have to be willing to share some of our hard stuff when the Holy Spirit nudges. After all, God uses us when we are weak and small to bring himself glory. I find the messy parts of my story are encouraging to other women in their own messy middles, and we strengthen our faith, our friendships, and our community when we share these things.

— Julie

— Today’s Act of Friendship —

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you what messy middle he wants you to share with someone who is struggling. Come alongside her in support and community and faithful encouragement.