Last month, we had our District ministers’ retreat at Sizewell Hall. It was a wonderful time of reflection, prayer, and fellowship. I really enjoyed the sessions and some of the creative reflection activities we did there.
In one session, we were given two colours of wool and asked to make something from them. I know a little bit about sewing, but knitting is not one of my skills! So I tried to find some help on YouTube and got a small idea—to start by tying the wool together and see how it goes. Then I thought, “Why not try my own design?” I sometimes help to braid the hair of my wife and daughter, so I tried to use the same skill with the wool. Slowly, I made something that looked like a long thread. Then I thought, “Why can’t I make it into a bracelet?” So I shaped it into a bracelet, as you can see in the picture. It didn’t look perfect, but it was my own small creation and I was happy with it.
That moment reminded me that we often hesitate to try new things because we feel we don’t have enough skill or confidence. We wait until we see the full picture before starting. But sometimes, God simply asks us to begin with what we have and trust him to guide us as we go.
In Philippians 4:13, Paul says,
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Even small beginnings can become beautiful when we allow God to work through us. Let us thank and praise the Lord who gives us creativity, courage, and joy in learning something new.
Prayer:
Loving God, thank you for giving us new opportunities to learn and grow. Help us not to be afraid to try new things and trust in your strength and guidance, even when we feel unsure. Continue to give us wisdom, patience, and creativity to use the gifts you have placed in us.
Bless our work today and help us to do everything for your glory. We pray this in your Son’s name, Jesus our Lord. Amen.