Yesterday I just had one of those really awesome moments when I was truly blessed.

I was at my friend April’s baby shower, helping my other favorite Bible study gals prep for the occasion. I cut up veggies, scooped dip into dishes, laid items out on the food table, dutifully found baskets and dish towels, and greeted guests, carefully giving them key instructions and welcoming them to the festive occasion.

Normally, I would have been the one to avoid contributing help, while all the really “together” women got busy in the kitchen making preparations, decorating, and so on. That reaction is one born out of fear and not laziness. I had always felt incapable of doing a good job when it came to hospitality services. I think I feared looking stupid or being told I was doing everything wrong.

But this moment I was among friends. I didn’t freeze up when asked to do a simple task. I just did it – and enjoyed myself. Whereas before I would have been stressed, I relaxed in the presence of my intimate friends, who I knew cared about me. What a blessing! What a change!

I tell you this quick story because I don’t want you to forget those moments – however small – when you realize you are healing from some past hurt, when you have suddenly overcome a past failure or sore spot.

We should give thanks to the Lord for bestowing His grace upon us. He truly is completing that good work that He began in each of us (Philippians 1:6).

God says that old things are gone, new things are in your midst. He makes you into a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). All those areas where you feel weak and unable, when you give them to Him, He will surprise you (as He did me) in what He can bring into your life.

Don’t ever say nothing will ever change. Maybe YOU can’t change on your own. But when you trust in HIM, all things are possible (Mark 9:23).

– Laura J. Bagby