No IMPOSTER SYNDROME for me. I earned everything by the Grace of God. I know sometimes when you have been in the wilderness so long, when you finally make it to the promised land you are apprehensive and don’t know how to celebrate. You will ask yourself “Is this real?” and “How long will this last?”… What we fail to realize is that HE IS A PROMISE Keeper.
It’s okay you can put that heavy bag down; you can rest here. It’s okay to rejoice, IT’S SAFE! However, while in jubilee still maintain that work ethic, trust God, and recognize that nothing would be possible without Him because our steps are ordered. He never said it would be easy, just possible if you only believe. We’re not self-made anything, HE ALLOWED it. CONGRATULATIONS! You did well. You did something about what God told you. You pursued that thing you worked hard and finally accomplished it. ITS NOT SMALL! So, celebrate this new you, new day, new beginning but keep Him centered and give Him all the glory.
My new year started on August 1st, and I am already in 2025. I just want to be present in the present recognizing that all things work out for my good and that in itself is a PRESENT.
Stand on His promises, He will not fail you, He is not a liar!
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Let them be confused about who you are now! (Divine Misunderstanding)
– DR. courtney m. bradley
When you look at the transgender community, you’ll see a people who are fully persuaded about their lifestyle. They are passionate about transformation and “becoming”. Similar to Michelle Obamas book, there’s a whole process to endure as you evolve into what is new and who you were intended to be.
It’s high time that the body of Christ adapts that mentality as well be tenacious about our walk. So what if people are stuck on who you used to be? Let them be confused about who you are now. Be bold about your stance and choice in Christ. Endure the process, go to great lengths and be excited about your original self being introduced to you. Be transformed unapologetically!
One of the biggest topics in the world is based on relationships. Relations are just interactions that develop, and form based on the level of access we give someone. Some grow, but all need to be managed. We’re all born with an innate desire for a sense of belonging and to connect with other human beings. How we pursue relationships to fill that void is another discussion.
Many are blessed to find and unite with their “person” or soulmate. Others are still searching or waiting to be found. Churches have dedicated group relationship status where they discuss lifestyles and tips to live a life aligned with that of Christ. With Christ as the center and core of our essence, the subject of dating gets interesting. Many acknowledge that they are “not just anybody therefore they cannot just be with anybody”- Bishop Mervin Harding. I completely agree, life as a Believer is a life souled out, set apart, and targeted. I’m not saying we cannot mingle with others who don’t share the same beliefs but being “unequally yoked” is a demise waiting to happen.
Being unequally yoked doesn’t always mean a Christian and Non-Believer are dating. It’s also dating another Christian of another denomination, has diametrically opposed views, and conflicting life practices and whose personal walk doesn’t reflect anything close to their profession. The world doesn’t respect Christianity not because of the many forms of it but because we don’t practice what we preach. Things are confusing because we’re not brand ambassadors staying on brand, we contradict. We somewhat believe the word and accept partial truths to mix in with our walk. This is why it’s imperative to have discernment and also seek God about who you connect to. We shouldn’t casually date, but date intentionally.
Be clear about your core values, boundaries, and challenges. It’s best to connect with a partner who can encourage you and push you to live your best life. A partner who understands your goal and your God. When you are secure in yourself and your standards, you should be strong enough to take a stand. Having the “sex talk” with your partner isn’t sinful it’s life. You both should be partnering to live life as a vessel that is pure and ready for God to use. If your partner wants, you to compromise or is getting aggressive it’s a red flag. If your desires don’t align then that’s something to discuss. Don’t get me wrong it’s not a walk in the park, being celibate. It is a challenge especially when your partner is “fine” and very attractive.
You may have an active imagination and may struggle in this area. No need for shame, it’s natural. Many musicians and Levites struggle with their flesh. Forerunners that carry the sound or glory will always get hit hard. Temptation means something offered to you that you like and desire. Nothing dangled in front of you will be unappealing. Please know that you’re not alone. No cold shower is going to help. These little tricks don’t do anything if you need deliverance in this area. It’s advised to find activities to substitute frustrations. It sounds like a cliché but talking to God about helping you through this will work. Be honest about where you are and venerable in your prayers. You don’t need Him to take away the passion you have just help you take it until it’s time to release it.
The word of God is a defense. If we hide the word, we might not sin against Him (Psalm 119:11) and keep our mind on things that will edify and feed our spirit. Know that music is masterfully crafted and also is a spiritual expression and experience. Guarding your ear gates is a necessary step. You can’t live in a bubble, but your eyes also need guarding. If you struggle with sexual addictions, then that’s a discussion for your Pastor and or Sex Therapist. It’s advised to find activities and ways to “cool down”.
Please be selective about the people you allow in your space and the places you choose to go. If you know you can’t handle certain environments do yourself a favor and turn down that invitation. Delete the numbers of those who are eager to see you cheat on your first love (Christ) and have no regard for your wishes. One thing I remind myself is that I’m heir to a celestial throne and the last thing I need to do is intentionally place myself in the midst of fire. As a musician or leader in ministry, whatever spirits we “exchange” or open up ourselves to we open a door for the enemy to infiltrate our encounters and environments. He comes to kill, steal, and destroy… remember? (John 10:10) He has no authority to harm you. He needs divine permission (see Job) or we make ways for Him to be comfortable.
We compromise and that’s why Believers are not respected. If you happen to fall, shake yourself and get back up. The enemy will make you feel conflicted, but the Holy Spirit will convict. The enemy will make you feel filthy but remind yourself that God’s desire is to give you a chance to be forgiven. Pastor Donnie sang “get back up again”. You’re still a child of God, do not cower don’t hide like Adam and Eve. God looks forward to dialogues with you. Regardless of your state whether you just fell, now standing, or have been running the race of celibacy for a while know that’s it’s worth the wait. Know you are more than a moment, you worth the wait. I think of it as the difference between fast food and a fine dining experience. Fast food is easy, cheap, and unhealthy but it’s great for a moment. There are no real nutrients. Substance comes from a well-cooked meal. If you go to an elite restaurant and order its best, there is a wait time. You may see everyone around you getting what they order ahead of you but who said it’s delicious or even the correct order? What you may order may take a little more time to prepare. We want God’s best, let him take time to marinate what will bless your palette. If he made you a promise. He will fulfill it on His schedule. Let Master Chef put some extra love into what needs to love you perfectly.
Father teach me how to wait. What do you need of me in the interim? Waiting is weighty and let me tell you why. While you wait your literally taking on the weight of your call and assignment. You are increasing your intimacy with your first love. We must keep in mind that our bodies are not our own. We are bought with a price. God owns us but it’s our job to manage the vessel. Remind yourself that everything you do affects the whole. Consider how your actions can pollute your authentic witness and effectiveness. We can’t lead by living a lie. This is a great time to ask yourself, Do I trust God? You’re probably saying of course I do. “I Luh God” (Mary Mary) but what does Faith have to do with celibacy or abstinence? … trust!
Trust is blind faith. I know that when we want to do the right thing evil is ever present (Romans 7:19-25). Can we trust God with our emotions and sex life? Or is He limited to bills, certain miracles, some signs, and wonders? He doesn’t have a glass ceiling; we create them with impatience mixed with unclear expectations. Do we trust Him to be the one to coordinate our relationships? Can we endure and fight this good fight with expectation? There is a great reward. Go after God with your whole heart. Withhold nothing let every part of us be for Him. He gave up everything to give us everything. Real love is about sacrifice. What can we give up in exchange for His reward? Isn’t He worth it?
There are so many benefits to abstinence or celibacy.
Clearer mind and spirit
No risk of unintentional pregnancies
Protection for STD’s and STI’s
Peace of Mind
Boosts your immunity
Avoidance of clouded decisions
A chance to decipher if its love or lust
Test the patience and respect of a partner
Boosts anger management
Increased strength in your stance
A great opportunity to be used by God
Time to get to know your partner for real
Maintain a moral posture within your Christian walk
The choice is yours. Your life hands in the balance based on your obedience. The type of vows you make to God also determine the quality of life you experience.
There are two quotes that I despise with great passion. The famous sarcastic statement of “It’s not rocket science” and “I’m hard on you because I want you to be better than me!”. I started hearing it more often and found myself to be highly irritated. I needed to do some digging to find out why. After some reflection, I realized that it was not the person. It traced back to the root of pain where those statements were so rudely introduced.
Emotional and verbal abuse is just as damaging as physical abuse. Although bruises, broken bones, wounds, and cuts heal, words often don’t. If you don’t believe me, ask a therapist. You can carry verbal scars for a lifetime. They are not a badge of honor or survival. They are like chronic health issues that become a part of your daily life and “act up” when triggered. Words can replay in your psyche (soul, mind, and spirit) and be a hindrance in various parts of your life. Both cases of abuse are severe instances that hinder your ability to trust, be open and vulnerable, leaves a residue of insecurity. Oftentimes we think we “got over it” but then memories infuriate you and cause you to do or say something you can potentially regret. Many experience difficulties loving and embracing, you may experience PTSD. Post-traumatic stress disorder is just the beginning. There are panic attacks for comments and circumstances that mirror what you have been through. You may be short-tempered and eager to protect yourself and violent. You may have walls up, become sarcastic, live in survival mode, and experience self-sabotage. There are a host of repercussions and varied effects. After the deep soul search, I realized I was introduced to these quotes from a family member who I loved dearly but never really could determine if the love was ever reciprocated. I realized years later that person was hurting too. They were broken and had to be strong despite what they had to endure. I admire their strength but now I had to let go of those things because words are anchors. While you’re considering going in a different direction, your ship is unable to move because those comments have more weight than you would like to admit. Forgiveness isn’t for them but it’s for us to be free and not give our power away. I know it’s hard for some to consider but it’s the truth. Some things have to be squished, sliced, and dissected so you can enjoy the fruit or the flavor. Well, forgiveness has a fragrance and taste that is indescribable and liberating. I realized that forgiveness is an art. Even in the Bible, it taught about forgiving seventy times seven for one individual (Matthew 18:22). It means that people will offend you and it may be multiple times. I’m not saying to be someone’s fool, but they may mess up more than once as infallible beings. It’s not that anything is wrong with you, you are not “Soft” but being the bigger person who exercises much grace. We must learn to establish boundaries without damaging others and ourselves. Love covers a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8), but it also heals. Look at stray abused dogs. They may want to attack when you attempt to rescue them but it’s like wow look at what they endured. You must give it some time.
“Your assignment will most likely bite you before they bless you,” said Dr. Courtney M. Bradley. People are imperfect and will mess up more times than they can count. Haven’t we done something things numerous times before we got it right?… but yet we are forgiven. The Bible talks about forgiveness being done seventy times seven. If you do the math, it’s 490 times. Most folks would be like who going to sit back and allow someone to offend or attack me that much?. People will be people, and some are trapped in their world of pain-causing havoc. We are so eager to cut people off. If you fire people from a job without an exit interview or some form of explanation there is no lesson learned just recycled behaviors. We end up being stuck in emotions like a bookmark in a dramatic novel. God doesn’t want us to be fooled but to live free. Forgiveness is art for self-liberation we must practice. You may never get that deserved apology but still…practice. When memories offend, forgive again. Keep practicing. “Forgiveness is a fragrance the violet sheds on the heel that crushed it”- Mark Twain. I desire to be a fragrance before God that he can be pleased with where beauty is revealed even in pressing times. Understand that people who are abused express what they have been suppressing. YOU are not anyone’s punching bag. You are not called to be the one in the way of projective behavior. It’s a sad cycle but I am learning to have more compassion than I did in times past. Thing’s people say will cut deep but know that you loved and love yourself enough to live through it and surpass it. Have that hard conversation but don’t dwell there, don’t give negativity more life and power. You win just by being your awesome authentic self. Let it all go so you won’t have to live hindered and on defense.
If we do not grasp the “you are here” theory or understand current placement, we will not experience success navigating. Directives and instructions only make sense with those with clarity and information.
cHRISSY-RENEE
Mentor, Orator, and Life Coach Dr. Courtney M. Bradley has a “You Are Here” theory. That is an understanding of where you are currently positioned. A place where you stop and gain information and learn. A moment to refocus, scale and view the bigger picture, and see what part you play in the movement of a system. It’s the perfect place to let go of where you were so you can embrace a new beginning or experience.
I moved into a new state. Completely unfamiliar territory and I thought I needed a guide to help me navigate this new space. Everyone wants that local who knows their way around to show you around and provide tips. However, I didn’t have that. Instead, I got lost, ask questions, and discovered things along the journey. Being lost in a vulnerable state where your intuition and trust kick into full gear. You may have to reach out to a stranger for help. What happens when that stranger is you? The part of you that we failed to discover or excavate. The self-sufficient, confident you that God created. In Him, there are no losses only gains. When you think you have been lost is a perfect place to be discovered and find support.
For me, at the mall alone and apprehensive I did what most tourists do. I found the information center. I got my hands on a map. With Christ, our Bible is our information center and place of direction and instruction. You are here, this is your state, this is your mindset, but this is where I have destined for you to go. I studied that map until I felt confident before I even took a step. I didn’t care if people stared or expressed opinions. I have a destination within this massive space and this map is my GPS. I often refer to God and the Holy Spirit as a G.P.S. He is my God’s Positioning System. When lost you got to ask questions. I asked God exactly where am I? Why am I positioned here? In that vulnerable time with Him. He will express your purpose and placement. Every experience you enter where an exchange is made of deposits and withdrawals there is a price to pay. Don’t consider everything a loss. During discovery, perspective is everything.
When we tap into our source of direction and empowerment, we become unstoppable. I was aware that tourists are targets. When you are in discovery mode, we are mostly focused or in awe of the space. What we fail to see is how you stand out to predators. The enemy comes to kill, steal and destroy. Many predators frequent malls in search of individuals of various ages who seem to be open pray. They make assumptions about your capacity and ability to maneuver. They assume it is easy to take your treasure or hurt you. The thing with God is, we don’t even have to walk around afraid or paranoid. We are covered in His blood. That enemy, the grand opportunist looking for a time of the attack cannot penetrate the hedge of protection God has for you in this season of growth.
You should declare that “I AM HERE”. I am getting my new foundation. I am not going anywhere unless He wants me to move. That “here” does not have to be a geographical place but it can be spiritual, mental, or socially related. Be confident that you are His child and that what’s unfamiliar to you is familiar to Him. We must trust his guidance. Are we open to adhering to instructions? Do we prefer to figure things out ourselves? Life is much more peaceful and simpler if we rely on a guide that never steers wrong. When we disobey, we wander. Take a moment and get back to your information center. Father, I am HERE. Be open to learn and gain instructions for your next steps. Soon you will be the one giving instructions and guiding others in the right direction. Enjoy this newness in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:17 states that “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new.” Isaiah 43:19 says “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”.
In short, let go of former things (places in your heart and mind), connect to your center, be open to learn, trust God, wait for instructions, move with confidence and enjoy the discovery of all that is new. YOU ARE HERE NOW!
Sometimes, we are waiting for our lives to “takeoff” and were confused about why we may still be in a “queue” (British) or line. God is the both the control center and the Divine Pilot. He is seated in the “pit” of our lives and desires us to arrive at our destined place but needs our cooperation. There are instructions to follow. He has a team providing them and demonstrating what safety looks like. He prepared for this moment. He came fully loaded and everything is in place. I PAID a price already for the seat that I occupy. This seat has my name on it, I belong here. What I could not cover, He took care of it.
Aircraft does not take off sometimes due to factors such as weight(baggage), altitude pressure and runway conditions. I had to check myself. You have been “grounded” for so long but isn’t time? What is going on? What weight are you carrying that is excess that isn’t even yours? The altitude of my faith, where is it? And most importantly, what is going on with the runway of my life? God has already cleared there way and gave a green light. The signals were very clear, but I couldn’t see it.
I then asked myself, aren’t you not built to go the distance? What is going on with the surface of the path? And is there fear? I got my answer tonight in Midnight Prayer (Encounter). My spiritual father, Dr. Courtney M. Bradley elaborated on being fastened. I then realized that it is me. I must be deliberate about being “fastened” in Him so he can take me where I need to go at the correct attitude. My problem was I couldn’t grasp what that meant or what was needed from me. It dawned on me afterwards that not only have things been demonstrated, but there is also a manual and guide to refer to. Even if I am afraid of the height; even if I never been this way before I MUST trust that He is an expert in my life.
:Always forward, never backward” – Abraham Lincoln
God’s plan isn’t to disappoint or crash. My expected end doesn’t include casualties but life. He made the announcement for me to “prepare” and that’s my cue to use what is provided to “buckle up”. I am precious cargo to Him. I am not on this ride alone. My dear friend Tameka Samuels said when we take heed to the instruction to “be fastened then we can withstand the sudden (or projected) turbulence and winds”. In order to soar, we need speed and that’s what God is trying to build if we let Him. It is our time to soar. Soar over dangerous waters, conquer our fears, experience unchartered territory, and discover, escape the past, expand our perspective, learn, become more cultured in Him. It’s not time to loose control but allow him to be in cruise control. I don’t know about you but I’m ready for takeoff.
WARNING! This blog contains touchy subject matter!
For starters, let me make the bold statement of stating that Depression is not a choice!
This may be controversial for some of spiritual backgrounds or unique opinions. It is fine to be diametrically opposed respectfully. However, there are some that need to hear this. If you or someone you know suffers with anxiety or symptoms of depression, you already know how heavy this topic is.
What is depression exactly? It is a mood disorder that causes changes in temperament that may be gradual or sudden. It is a persistent or occasional feeling of suddenness and loss of interest. Depression is mental health disorder. Anything dealing with the brain affects the remainder of your body and does cause some health issues. There are some physical factors linked to depression as heart disease, drastic weight loss or gain, fatigue, hypothyroidism and much more.
According to my research over 264 million people suffer depression. That’s millions of people fighting through each day or certain seasons. Depression can lead to suicide. Approximately 800,000 people commit suicide annually. Now that is a great number and I believe it can be preventable for most. Depression is enough to manage along not to mention the external complexities of life events and circumstances that add to it. The worst part of dealing with certain symptoms is judgement. Negative, dismissive, or judgmental comments coming from anyone is critical to someone in this state. You can push them away, cause them to shut down and even slip deeper into a whole. Many would argue that your words do nothing. As stated in a previous blog “Sticks and Stones” you will see that it is quite detrimental. How can we mitigate this? By support and kindness. Now, I am not suggesting you walk on eggshells but to be considerate of the fragility of that person’s mind and emotions.Get them talking and try to find out their triggers. This would help your relationship greatly if you had an idea of senstive topics and/or situations.
The great debate has been the argument of the gene vs. the person. Sometimes it is both. Some people are predisposed to certain actions, symptoms, and behaviors. Others develop such symptoms in their juvenile state, adolescence and even adulthood. We all go through something where it might make you question your worth, existence, and purpose. However, it gets dangerous when you are hopeless and believe you would be doing everyone a favor by removing yourself permanently. Some experience trauma and have not appropriately dealt with such blows and continue to smile and occupy time and mental space with activities and work. Some burry themselves in their hobbies. Look at some of the greatest celebrities we know struggle with substance abuse, depression and the list continues on. They have everything it seems except happiness. They become perfectionist and exhibit other qualities where their profession is the core of their existence. It makes sense why some are distraught when their careers make left turns. The people to watch are not always the ones in the corner sulking. Contrary to most common belief, it is the person in charge of everything, dealing with pressure and responsibility. It’s the person smiling and fully functional. They are team players and most commonly creatives. We hear the saying “I am an Artist, and I am sensitive about my stuff!” Many are tired to their gifts and abilities.
Creatives, Artists, Leaders everyone deal with various levels of depression. Some people can bounce back faster than others. We often judge people by their leaves. Leaves are external and visible features. We rarely know or acknowledge the root. Many fail to go that deep to someone. All you have to do is to accept that these occurrences are real and your loved one or friend is not some hypochondriac seeking attention.
I am highly convinced that many depressed individuals are empaths. Everyone has a measure of empathy within. Unless you are a sociopath, you will feel something. However, empaths have the ability to embrace everything and feel everyone in their atmosphere. They are often sensitive and tend to be some of the most mindful, thoughtful, caring individuals. Many are emotionally intelligent and uniquely observant. There is a plethora of reasons why someone may be emotional or depressed. Not everyone can handle a million things thrown at them. I personally prefer to say that a person has a compromised resilience tolerance.
The truth is, many people who suffer with this illness absolutely hate the feeling. They desire to be upbeat and have stability. Nobody chooses to lose passion, desire and fire within the things they loved most. Nobody wants to cry themselves to sleep.Many who are severely depressed are often experience systems unbeknownst to many around them. The phrase “misery likes company!” Is Not true for all people. Facades are worn to dismiss judgement and labels. It is like feeling trapped in a box underwater and left to mental sharks who smell blood. We demonize, ostracize and citizen people who deal with such symptoms even if they are fully functional. I recommend that we make it acceptable to say, “I AM NOT OKAY!” and create windows and doors for assistance.
As the holiday’s quickly approach. I would encourage everyone to check in with everyone they know and love. Donate to the homeless and those less fortunate who must sit and watch the world shop and spread love and joy. Smiles, shopping, holiday décor does not mean that they are well either. Many who have lost loved ones or do not have families are often down during this season. They do not need a pity party what they need is someone sincere just to be there. “They say its better to give than to receive” so while we are amidst the giving season lets give priceless gifts like love, support, prayers and kindness.
Encourage yourself or others to seek help and be surrounded by positive things. Positivity can be a religious community, friends, loves ones or just fun amongst good people. I strong suggest seeking professional help. There is nothing wrong with talking to someone who can help you make sense of things as well as tap into your faith. As a Christian, I stress having a personal and honest relationship with God. Many may never understand what you’re dealing with but He does. You can be healed but you must be honest with the Celestial Doctor and tell Him where it hurts. Truth is, He is the remedy over any prescription a physician can subscribe.
Here are some resources and hotlines to call in case you ever should need someone
I woke up feeling disgusted and confused to some extent. The house was in every way disheveled and unorganized. When things were far from put together. It affected me mentally and also shifted my mood.
In any home, things typically quickly accumulate or slowly build. That goes for dishes, laundry and even dirt. This happens intentionally or unintentionally. The key factor is you. You must be the one to recognize the need for cleaning. Sometimes you aware of the change immediately other times it just hits you like a ton of bricks. Being aware is only part of it. Next, you must make time and be motivated to make that change. You can see a pile up and keep saying tomorrow or later I will do that. Living non-motivated to make changes.
Suddenly, your doorbell rings and an unexpected visitor stops by. You are left embarrassed or quickly trying to fix things. By then it’s too late. You make comments like “Excuse the mess” or “I’ve been so busy I haven’t had time to clean up” with nervous laughter following.
I don’t know about you but cleaning is extremely cathartic and therapeutic for me. When my environment is clear and I feel free in my mind, I’m and overall happy. It’s welcoming and I get a sense of freedom. I took a moment to take it all in. I noticed the breeze from the window was the epitome of a perfect September afternoon. The smell of fresh linens, “Bath & Body” works signature scents in the air, the sight of glossed floors and well-organized space did something to me. I felt empowered and oh so good. Creativity started flowing and I was free to be my artistic self.
While wrist deep in a soapy environment the Lord whispered to me. You love how this feels right? That is great for the home, but what about you? I almost dropped the pot cover. Wow! What about me? I knew exactly what He meant. He was not referring to the space or even the boost in my mood. I am the vessel who houses God. His presence lives me, but my spirit has been junky. I recognized a lethargy in my spirit but was saying “I’ll take care of later or I don’t even wanna address this right now” Spiritual procrastination, neglect and eventually build-up. Spiritual build-up is the daily failure to renew my mind and spirit. The failure to communicate with the Savior to get rid of the dust of worry, the muck of stress and pile up from the doors I opened to the enemy. He resides inside of me and what an insult to be surrounded by the external and internal elements that have left a residue. Its unwelcoming and uninviting. Who feels comfortable in a dirty house? I was immediately convicted, and I needed to repent.
I said “Lord purge me. I want to turn from my wicked ways. Everything that upsets you please forgive me and help me to live the way you desire. I want you to smile when you see me. I want to do what is most pleasing to you after all I am the apple of your eye.”
PSALM 51:10- Clean heart, renew my spirit
Sometimes external things are easier to spot and you get uncomfortable enough to do something about it but internal mess we allow ourselves to live comfortably with. Christ lives within, no unwanted guests can dwell here. Just a clean atmosphere to maintain freedom, joy with no clutter. Every house is not a home, but I desire to be that vessel and that place He can call home.
Sometimes, we have to check our environment and monitor what’s being placed within. Is this a waste or is this edifying?… and where do I place this or that? Every home has a place for treasured items and a place for waste. When the two mix, we are in trouble. You must ask yourself “am I just living recklessly or am I being intentional about managing my home? I was perturbed by the disgust I felt internally and externally but so grateful that I recognized, acknowledged, and ran to the source that can help me clean up.
Sometimes when people clean, they put on their favorite jams that sustains their momentum. Oftentimes, music is very essential during this cleaning process. What are you playing as the soundtrack to keep you spiritually clear? Music that edifies or infiltrates. It is a spiritual experience and we should be very careful as to what we feed our spirit. It’s important that we protect our gates. Our ears, sight, heart are some gates to protect. They should have a combination that only God has the code for on them. In Isaiah 52:11 KJV tells that those that bare the vessels of the Lord should not touch the unclean thing. We ought to be Holy vessels not defiled ones. Imagine someone coming over to your home and thirsty and requests water. Would you take a dirty cup and then serve them? We are saved to serve and we can’t contaminate the people we are called to help save and heal.
Thankfully, repentance is like a combination of Mr. Clean, Clorox, Lysol, and any other substance you clean with. It is an opportunity to wipe clean, purify and purge. When you don’t feel good about or in your environment, check in with the one who lives within and I guarantee things will change. You can’t do this type of cleaning on your own.
One word from a person with pure intentions for you to live your best life can change your life! Yes, that was a mouthful but I couldn’t say it any other way. Beyonce asks the question “Who runs the world?” followed by a response of “girls!” but to me its WRITERS!!!
Let me explain. Writers construct the greatest speeches of all time. Many of which altered and shaped our history, nation, and the world at large. Writers evoke feelings, provide fantasy, and escape. They inspire the masses on various platforms. Writers affect our educations create laws, composed your favorite song and list goes on and on.
When someone gives great advice, that moment of inspiration and direction can shift the trajectory of your entire life. For example, my Mentor Dr. Courtney M. Bradley said, “Every day, do something about what God told you!” We all have a purpose and a destiny to fulfill. Some are still in search of clarity others are well on their way and on route. Regardless we all arrive in the timing of God. We are not our own so do not ever feel behind time or far off from where you need to be. I call Gods guidance the real G.P.S. Its Gods Positioning System of direction, instructions, and inspiration. No matter what obstacles encompasses you just know that you have a compass that would never let you go too far or lead you astray. You can rely and trust Him wholeheartedly. He has a plan for our lives (an expected end… Jeremiah 29:11) Circling back to Mr. Bradley’s quote, that statement shapes my morning thought process. Do not just get up in the literal sense but get up in life. Do a little every day. I realize that I am a person with BIG dreams, and I want to take these massive leaps, but some things require baby steps before I can take longer strides and eventually leaps.
Phenomenal individuals with great vision and wisdom happen to be writers, orators and motivational speakers influence our spheres of influence. My question to you is what words do you wake up to? Are there any words that confront you? Any words affect your habits or your daily activities?
Your vision should have words that point you forward. They say that “you are what you eat”. Every time you have a conversation with someone or have an internal monologue just know it’s an exchange of sorts. You are being fed in that exchange just make sure its something positive and nurturing that can propel you forward. Until next time stay positive, surround yourself with those who speak from a posture of health, create vision boards, utilize post-its with quotes and get yourself set up to live the life you desire to live.
According the Webster Dictionary, a receipt is the action of receiving something or the fact of its being received. Simply put, it’s a confirmation that a transaction has cleared, you now have full ownership.
When you walk into a store and see something you desire greatly and get to hear the register clear your purchase, you are ecstatic. It’s a great feeling to know that “it” is in your possession. In today’s society, online shopping is just as satisfying for all the cardholders. We live in that one click away generation. We anticipating the “promise” to be delivered and constantly check for its arrival. He thought we were worth dying for (Romans 5:8)
Imagine how Christ feels when He looks at you. You are his prized possession. We are purchased by his blood. You are the apple of his eye and He is so mindful of you. Every aspect of your life belongs to him and He is concerned about. Why? He paid a full price for us. He gave everything to give us everything and it was all done in love. We are his great desire. When he looks at the earth its like shopping…looking for someone to love. What new soul can I attain. Whose life can I enhance? We are the promise that He spoke. He patiently waits for our arrival in the earth realm and rejoices along with the angels when we finally choose him and make an arrival in the spirit. He is so patient and loving. He doesn’t have to track us; he knows eventually because were on His schedule that we will come around. What a wonderful Savior.
Our debts are paid in FULL
When you look at the aspect of shopping its basically an EXCHANGE. It’s a trade not a one-sided deal. Salvation is a life for life. Relationship with Christ is our heart and obedience for his heart towards us. We get a good deal too, included is His hand, his mind, blessings, favor, grace mercy and the list can go on infinitely. I implore you to give Him your all; you can’t wrong or loose out. There is no false advertising with Jesus, there is no disappointment, no regrets He gets amazing reviews all around because He truly delivers. Not only are we His prized possession but when we’re fully His, we become the RECIPT. We are the living, breathing proof of his transaction on the cross. How fulfilling that must be when we live for Him and love Him completely.
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