POST 17: Your Voice Matters
POST 17
Your Voice Matters
“I volunteer as tribute!”
These were the words Katniss Everdeen screamed when her little sister was selected for the Hunger Games. In the fictional world of Panem, people weren’t allowed to use their voices, especially the children who were being sent to these cruel games. These four words were the only way Katniss could use her voice to save her sister. Her voice may not have ever mattered before this moment, but when she discovered the power of her voice, it set her on a course to mobilize an uprising and save an entire country.
Like Katniss, you have a voice and your voice matters. The Hunger Games may not be your reality—you may not be the face of a revolution—but you have influence, no matter how big or small.
What will you do with your voice?
Gift and Responsibility
First, recognize that your voice is a gift from God. Think about it. First Corinthians 4:7 says that everything we receive is from God. This leads to two responses: gratitude for the gift of having a voice and humility because it’s not our own doing, but God’s. God gives you your voice, and it’s given for a reason.
In The Hunger Games, Katniss uses her voice to save her sister. She goes on to use her voice to move the citizens of Panem to rise up against their oppressive and corrupt government. Basically, she uses her voice for those who have been silenced.
You also have a responsibility to speak up for others. This is one of the reasons your voice matters. Your voice is specific to you and can be helpful to many. No one else has your voice.
What is something you know about? What is something you’re passionate about? Who is someone you can help? How can you use your voice to speak up? These are questions you can ask yourself as you figure out how to use your voice.
Don’t waste time wondering if your voice matters; choose to believe the truth that it does, and then use it. Chances are someone is counting on you to use your voice, and they’ll be glad when you do.
READING GOD’S WORD
Don’t let any foul words come out of your mouth. Only say what is helpful when it is needed for building up the community so that it benefits those who hear what you say. (Ephesians 4:29)
My mouth will proclaim the LORD’s praise,
and every living thing will bless God’s holy name forever and always. (Psalm 145:21)
After that I will pour out my spirit upon everyone;
your sons and your daughters will prophesy,
your old men will dream dreams,
and your young men will see visions. (Joel 2:28)
Journaling Questions
Do you believe your voice matters? If not, what is stopping you from grasping hold of this truth?
How can you use your voice to speak up for others?
Pray This Prayer
God, thank you for giving me a voice. I may shake when I use it, but I pray that you would empower me to use it nonetheless. Help me to see how I can use my voice to help others and bring glory to your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
SOMETHING TO TRY
This week, we have two options to try based on your comfort level.
Option 1: Take an index card and write down these words: “I am who God says I am. I am important. My voice matters, and I am deeply loved.” Recite them each time you become uncertain about whether your voice matters.
Option 2: Post a video on social media using your voice to share about something that’s important to you and advocate on behalf of someone else.
THE TAKEAWAY
Your voice matters because it is a gift from God to be used for a purpose.