We, as a family, recently celebrated the birthdays of my Father, my twin brother Graham, and me. We were all born on the same day, April 12th. I love Fathers and the role they play in our lives. I have been very blessed to have an exceptional Father who has cheered me on and prayed for me every day of my life.
As our evening of visiting winded down, we watched a clip from Britain’s got talent. A young 12-year girl named Beau Dermott nailed her performance of “Defying Gravity.” Or as my sister-in-law, Jen said, “she owned it!”
What struck me as I watched this clip was her father. He couldn’t stay behind the stage as his daughter performed, but had to sit among the crowd, giving him a better vantage point from which he could see his little girl and cheer her on. His eyes wet with tears of pride, as he mouthed the words along with her. It was like his desire to see her “own it” was just as strong as her desire.
I thought about his role as her father. He would have done anything he could to help prepare her before she stepped on the stage to release her gift to a watching world. He would have lead in ways to ensure her success.
No matter the outcome of his daughter’s performance, he would have embraced her, telling her how proud he was of her, breaking off any chance for shame to take root. She is a 12-year-old girl who has conquered the silent enemy of shame that steals our destinies. She stands victorious, knowing her Papa’s eyes are on her and she is safe under his care, in failure or success. His presence is a gift that allows her to expand her territory in full strength and dignity.
The fear of shame can keep us from living out who we really are. Too often we let the fear of shame stop us from taking risks, from stepping out before a watching world and owning the gifts we have been given from our Heavenly Father.
Over the past few weeks, I have heard the phrase “own it” three times now. When I hear a phrase being repeated I take note. Are you trying to say something, God?
The heart of your Heavenly Father, whether you have come to know Him, or have yet to be introduced to Him, is a heart that looks upon you with beaming joy and pride. He is the very one who has put gifts and talents in you, to inspire, touch and make an impact on the people around you.
If we haven’t had a parent or teacher or someone to encourage us, we may not even recognize our gift. We may live according to the lies that say, “My life will never amount to anything.” Maybe we see what we have to offer but we think it’s less important or less significant than another’s gift, leaving us always comparing and coming up short.
We’re in a season where our Heavenly Father is inviting us to step onto the stage of life, taking what we have been given, and “owning it!” It’s time to own what He has invested in you. He has been equipping you through the journey of life whether you’ve recognized it or not. He’s designed you with the perfect combination of talent, personality, and gifts. He’ll never set you up for shame.
Step out to do what you’ve always longed to do, trusting that His presence is with you. Trusting that His heart bursts with pride as He watches you take risks to make an impact on the lives of those around you.
“Those who look to Him are radiant are radiant, their faces are never covered in shame.” Psalm 34:5