“how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”
Acts 10:38 KJV
“And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured.”
Genesis 39:5-6 KJV
In a world where craving constant approval, seems to undermine the gifts and talents embedded in us, many suffer under the demise of the so called impostor syndrome. In the course of the year, I had the opportunity to minister at a ministry. A church accustomed to the Dutch language, unfamiliar with me as I only minister in English, however language is not a barrier in the Spirit. I was invited by a great woman of God in our ministry, not of Ghanaian descent but worships with us, it came of so shocking to me and caused me to wonder why “little old me”. Upon seeking the permission of the Father over the ministry where I serve, I took on the task and it was truly a blessing.
Impostor syndrome puts many in the place where we feel inadequate to rise to the call, or feel as unqualified even.
In mere definition:
impostor syndrome
noun: imposter syndrome
- the persistent inability to believe that one’s success is deserved or has been legitimately achieved as a result of one’s own efforts or skills.
While pondering over the context of our Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ in Acts 10:38 according to the testament of Peter and Joseph in Genesis 39:5-6, one thing stood out most encrypted in this 5 worded statement; for God was with Him. Many times believers in whom the Lord has placed mighty giftings and treasures are of the notion they need some high qualification or endorsement to answer the Lord’s call. We have been brainwashed to believe we need to be backed by people with a form of calibre in order to do that which the Lord beckons. This is so much so to the extent that we even neglect the trainings and dealings of God, the place of intimacy in our secret place, discipline and commitment —we despise our small beginnings. Not neglecting the role of Fathers in the faith who partake in our building and becoming. In the household of God where you have been called to worship, serve and show honor, also forms part of our making and becoming, our diligence and faithfulness all counts for the tasks ahead not withstanding stature in the spirit and wisdom—without which no one just rises or can rise.When David was on the battle field, before facing Goliath, he attested of his resumé as a sheperd, catering for the sheep, battling lions and bears, it sounded like nothing compared to facing a gigantic Philistine.
One thing David was sure of was his track record and that the unction of the Lord was evident enough to win over the battle that was before him. Remember, David was not announcing himself neither is this the purpose of the message, David was not approving himself, he was approved of God and trained in his sphere of influence. So was Joseph, the lives of these two men revealed how they climbed up the ladder of their becoming, while facing adversity, they built resilience and strenghtened their faith. The Bible empahsizes on the hand of the Lord that was upon them, the annointing upon them, and power of God at work in them. There was a manifestation of God in them and through them, evident for all to see.
Likewise as Peter speaks of Jesus in Acts 10:38, the annointing and power of God at work in Jesus, He went about doing good, healing all that were oppressed. Reckon this, Jesus is in full functionality of the power of God upon Him and through Him, His manifestation flowed from the recognition thereof. His dealings with God were not kept hidden, it flowed. Beloved you too can begin to flow, for the Spirit of God is upon you for the manifestation of good works. Your first endorsement is of God, your service and ministry is first to him and flows from there for your world to see. Impostor syndrome shows up subtly in fear.
It shows up through;
-Perfectionist traits , seeking perfection while disregarding small beginnings
-Seeking validation and approval
-the fear of being challenged or taking up a challenge
According to Proverbs 22:13 “The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”KJV
The verse is not only pointing out the sluggard but one who also out of the feeling of being an impostor, makes excuses not to do that which has been committed into their hands. Yes we must be trained, yes we need to be equipped . But remember we are made to show forth the riches of His glory and to be the light of the world. This is not to promote one’s self, but to be sure of the hand of the Lord upon you, to do His will in all courage and boldness, to not stay hidden where the Lord beckons you to take up the task. To walk in good works for which you have been created and regenerated. Don’t despise the ancient landmarks nor the small beginnings, but do not shrink yourself, like Gideon where you come from or the multitudes with you does not determine how much God can do with you. But the Spirit of God upon you makes the difference, so like Joshua be strong and courageous, take your position in the kingdom. There is place for everyone. Arise and Shine.