Happy Friday, friend!

Imagine we’re all standing around in the darkness, each holding an unlit candle in our hands. Fearful of what others might say if they could really see us, we clutch that candle tightly against ourselves, refusing to strike a match.

Finally, one person is brave enough to light her candle and show herself to others. She offers that light and warmth to the person standing next to her, who in turn can now see to light her own. That person turns to the one on her other side and offers her the same. And on and on it goes. Soon, the room is filled with light and warmth, and the imposing darkness from before has given way to the freedom of vulnerability and compassion.

THIS is what I picture in the first part of our Verse of the Week:

“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” Revelation 12:11 (NIV)

(For a more complete unpacking of this verse, be sure to check out this clip from Monday’s video with Lysa!)

While we may feel vulnerable sharing our testimony, remember that the greatest act of vulnerability in all of history, Jesus Christ on the cross, resulted in the greatest freedom we could ever imagine!

So don’t be afraid to light up the darkness with the voice of one who’s “been there,” who’s maybe STILL there fighting her way through. Show others that they are not alone — that you, too, know what it’s like to walk through the fire.

Will some respond to you with commentary and criticism? Maybe. But will others find hope and healing? Most definitely.

So be brave. Be vulnerable. And go light your world with compassion!

Hope you've had an awesome weekend, friend.
Stacy