What Inspires You?

What Inspires You?

Tell me what inspires you? This March the United States is celebrating Women’s History Month. This month is a celebration of all the contributions women have made in history and society. What a great opportunity we have to reflect upon every woman who has made a difference. The kind of difference that starts revolutionary movements. Grace Hopper played a significant role in the beginning stages of computer programming. Rosalind Franklin was a chemist who confirmed the theory of the structure of DNA, and Madam C.J. Walker was the first African American woman to own her own business, become a millionaire, and philanthropist. It is powerful to take the time to acknowledge these endeavors. Endeavors that started with simply an idea of inspiration to make this world a better place.
 

What is Inspiration?

Inspiration is an impulse or idea to do something creative. It is when an individual is prompted to fulfill and take action on whatever it is they are inspired to do. The options are endless, still what you are called to is uniquely made for you. I remember the last time I wrestled with the thought of how do I know what it is I am called to? Well, it all begins with inspiration.

When I read the story of Queen Esther in the Book of Esther, I was surprised by how brave Esther was when she pursued the calling God had for her. Her life and the life of her people were on the line; and yet, she remained focused on what it was that God had called her to. So often we can lose sight of what it is God wants us to do because we are worried about how we will accomplish what it is we are striving for. Esther was resilient and impactful because in the midst of difficulty and uncertainty she remained obedient and faithful to God.

When Jesus came to this earth, he had one mission. That mission was to bring salvation to the unsaved and bring healing through the good news of the Gospel. His drive was to fill a need that desperately needed to be filled.

When God lays something on our hearts, we should listen to what it is that God is saying. Sometimes we do not have the full picture, but we should trust him. Whether what we are doing will result in something big or small, everything we do when done in accordance with God’s will is impactful. That is because God always takes what we consider small and multiplies it. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7, NLT). We can choose to trust God and give him the desires of our heart. He is able to guide us and give us the strength we need to continue. We can reflect on those in Scripture and history to see how exactly they took action on what they were inspired to do.

As I reflect on the famous women in history, I encourage you to do the same. Ask yourself what it is that inspires you. Pray and ask God how you can use the gifts and talents He has given you for His glory.