She approached me sheepishly, all the while checking to see who was watching. She was young, likely still in High School. Without any introduction she began to share a struggle all too similar to mine. I could see it in her eyes that she was desperate for answers, ones I didn’t have.  Earlier that day my sister and I sang “He Washed Me”.  At that time, we had recently finished writing the song.  It was clear that people were touched which left me feeling both humble and hypocritical because though the lyrics spoke of triumph I was certainly still in bondage.  In fact, it was why I wrote the song. Uncomfortably I sat as she poured her heart out to me wondering what the heck I was supposed to say and more importantly who was listening.  There was no way I was going to let her know she wasn’t alone at my expense and just like that an opportunity was missed.

    I wish I could say that was the only time my pride got in the way of an opportunity to encourage or edify someone, but, it wasn’t.  There is an unspoken rule that we as Christians must give off an image, true or not, that we have it all together. Too often we struggle alone, perhaps thinking we are the only ones, while unbeknownst to us many around us have already overcome the same sins.  To often our churches shy away from certain topics as not to air out their dirty laundry or we condemn those looking for help. Too often we let pride get in the way, valuing man’s opinion of us over God’s. God is slowly chipping away my pride and the truth is that not everyone will respond to my testimony with love. However, I’ll share not for the praise of man but, for the praise of God. For if God is not pleased with me what else really matters? I’m tired of the status quo…I’m looking for something real. How about you?

"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind..." 1 Corinthians 10:13

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective". James 5:16
- Sydney


Sydney is an independent artist in Detroit, MI. She's passionate about young adult ministry and faith based nonprofits. Find her music at www.sydneyandpaige.com or search "Sydney & Paige Henry" on Facebook.