“If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it”
By Denise Upah
When I was first asked to give the CEO talk, all I could wonder was, “Why me? On What?” I am just a quiet person, trying to do and be the best I can. I even had a friend that has known me for many years ask me, “What did they ask YOU for?” I don’t think I have had any more ups and downs than the usual person has had.
But I have always felt that each person has a story to give, to share. If we have the courage to do so, it can connect us in marvelous ways. There is also a strength of spirit, from the Spirit, that helps the words come together.
Denise Upah shared her witness at St. Ludmila church
When I practiced my words, even alone, I would panic, my heart would race. I wondered how I could possibly give this talk, in front of a large group. This was something I had never done before. I could hardly announce my own piano students at recital – How did I think I would accomplish this? What was I thinking in committing to this? I was filled with doubt.
I truly believe in the work of the Holy Spirit. If He brings you to it, He will bring you through it. I prayed for months for the courage to get it right. I could feel the prayer of others lift me up. A friend gave me the Litany of Humility and I found great solace in that.
Just prior to giving my talk, I was amazed at how relaxed I did feel. For a fleeting moment, I even wondered why I felt so calm! When the conclusion came, I was so totally filled with peace, not just from relief – though that was certainly there – but a wonderful blessed feeling of having delivered a message that I wanted to share, that HE wanted me to share. I have heard others incredulously say, “That was not me! I don’t know how I did that!”
In my talk I referred to Christ taking our feet. That is the only way I can even begin to describe how I felt. I had an inordinate amount of strength, courage and confidence to give my CEO talk, by the Grace of the Holy Spirit.
Like many before her, Denise found the courage to give her personal witness of faith surrounded by her family, friends and community of believers at St. Lubmila church on Oct. 20, 2015. See the video of her witness talk here.