Recently I scanned some illustrations I have been drawing, but the scans turned out awful. “What’s wrong with this machine?” I cried out. “They really do build some poor quality stuff!”
I blamed my paint and watercolor paper as well. I blamed my husband for not giving me wise advice. I even blamed God for encouraging me to go down this path, only to lead me into failure.
Then I remember a comment someone made: “When I was convinced that I was right, of course I thought everyone was wrong. But then one day it occurred 
to me, maybe I was at fault…”
I took the hit and looked at my life. “God, what am I missing here?”
It suddenly came to me. My illustrations reflected my heart. I felt like a fraud out there in the art world. I felt I had no right to illustrate a book. And how dare I go waltzing in without any training and think I could succeed.
“Boldness,” I felt God saying. “Boldness! I gave you this gift, and don’t downplay it. Use bright colors, strong lines, and make a splash!”
I did, and an amazing thing happened. The scanner worked!
Eva, Good story! I am studying Joshua these days and have been thinking about similar things. The Lord keeps reminding him: ” be strong and courageous” over and over—I think we need reminding–I know I do!!
Hi Lani! Thanks. You are so right. It always amazes me how easy it is to forget. And I am so thankful that God doesn’t get bored with reminding us.