What are some of your strongest childhood memories?
A vivid memory for me is going to the Terrace movie theater (it has since been demolished) as a family and watching the Billy Graham movie “Joni”. I have been careful about diving into water ever since. I am also amazed at the way she has used her tragedy to serve the Lord.
This last week, I participated in the Christian Leadership Alliance conference in Dallas Texas. I was excited to hear Joni as the featured speaker on Thursday morning. I had never heard her speak in person before, and I wasn’t disappointed. Her Video introduction included scenes from the infamous movie and highlighted her current ministry opportunities.
As the lights came up, Joni’s husband was adjusting the music stand to hold her notes, and Joni began to speak.
What amazed me most was her perspective on life. These following quotes describe that perspective.
“I am the most blessed among women in that I need God more”.
“After my accident, I had to forget everything I had learned about personal power in leadership.”
“The most effective leaders lead with God-blessed power because of their weakness.”
“Something remarkable happens when we say, “God, I do not have the resources to do this, but you do.”
And she reminded us all of our dependence on him when she shared these words from 1 Corinthians 1:
But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise;
God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.
He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things
— and the things that are not
— to nullify the things that are,
so that no one may boast before him. (1 Corinthians 1:27-29).
Just what should our response be? Joni led is by singing (so beautifully) “I Surrender All”
It is only in our weakness that Christ’s power will become perfect. So, as we serve Him, in Released Time, at camp, in our churches, or in our families, may we surrender all so we may lead with God-Blessed Power.
Please be praying for the many children who are joining us for summer camp at Joy El. Pray that they will find their strength in Jesus Christ. If you would like to serve as a prayer warrior for one or multiple weeks, please email Jen [email protected].
