1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV)
Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.
(At a Canadian Idol audition, joined by two friends who came out to cheer me on.)
Not many people know this, but right before I released my first album in 2007, I auditioned in Halifax for the TV singing competition, Canadian Idol. What a nerve-wracking experience! After waiting in line for several hours, contestants had two off-camera auditions with different producers before the third audition which is filmed for the show. I made it to Toronto, but got cut in the first round. Cameras zoomed in as I walked out of the theater. To the producers’ chagrin, I didn’t express much emotion. I generally need time for the facts to sink in before I react. Needless to say, my part in the show didn’t make the final cut.
Was I disappointed in the outcome? Absolutely. Did I have doubts about my vocal and performance abilities? Absolutely. Truth be told, this is only one of my many times I’ve faced rejection in the music industry. What keeps me going is knowing that I am called to pursue music.
My experience on Canadian Idol birthed the song, “Diamond in the Rough”. In the face of rejection, I decided to continue walking in God’s calling by releasing more music, touring, and continuing to improve my skills. God, in His grace, opened doors I didn’t deserve and closed doors I wasn’t ready for.
Even when others don’t think you are good enough, you can pursue God’s calling on your life and follow His leading. Honestly, the only opinion that matters is God’s. It’s all about Him anyway. His power is put on display in our weakness!
Lord, thank you that you choose to partner with those of us who are rough on the outside, who are considered foolish and weak by others. You see the diamond sitting inside our rough exterior. Thank you that even in the face of rejection, we can have a powerful influence on the world for Your Kingdom!
COMMENT BELOW: How has God helped you overcome rejection, disappointment or self-doubt?