Together with kindness and in understanding, let’s take this time to self reflect. I am here to inspire, encourage, and remind you that God has given us the most important weapon we have to fight the enemy, his Word.

Now let us dress our soul like we dress our bodies, EVERYDAY!

 

Rising to the Challenge

“We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken, struck down, but not destroyed.” II Corinthians 4:8-9 ESV

Rising to any challenge start with you! Challenging ourselves is a way to discover our real strengths. We are able to build character, consistency, along with humility as we learn what it takes to reach our goals. Keep in mind that our challenges have nothing to do with other people. It is much more personal than that dear hearts. It is about you and your commitments to self.

All challenges require consistency, willingness, and endurance. I love how this scripture shares with us the opposite of chaos. We are not crushed, nor driven to despair, forsaken, or destroyed. Yes we still have a lot more work to do as we face those challenges. Are you ready to take the next steps from vision to completion, and of course everything in-between. Matthew 19:26 NKJV, “But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God All things are possible.” No doubt about it, God is our source, nothing is too hard for him.

As I look through the scripture I see plenty of examples of rising to the challenge. Look at Gideon and his army of three hundred, David and his slingshot as he faces the giant, and the three Hebrew boys in the fiery furnace. What is the one thing they all have in common regarding their challenges? They put God in front seeking his help and guidance. Here are a few other areas to work on as you work in the challenges. Recognize the resources that other can bring to you. Do your homework, it’s important to take the time to learn what you love. Stay on track, pay attention and stay woke. Learn to reset, pause, and rest.

When I think of the many challenges I have faced over the years, I am reminded of the importance of endurance. Kirk Franklin who is a choir director, gospel singer, songwriter, record producer, and author, has so many wonderful songs to keep us encouraged. From his 2015 Losing My Religion album, the song ‘Over’ inspired me to remember no matter what challenges I might face, I am definitely not alone on my journey. In his word he tells me, “yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us.” Romans 8:37NKJV. When you get the chance give it a listen and be prepared to get your praise on! Here are some of the lyrics:

It’s not over
If you’ve got air to breathe
It’s not over
Don’t believe everything you see
You’re a fighter
Weapons from somewhere higher

They light up when you’re closer
If God says it’s not over
Get up ’cause it’s not over

Remember we are each others keeper and the only time we should be looking down on someone is when we are helping them up.