As we move towards the end of the year, I love to reflect. How have I grown? Any lessons learned in this amazing classroom called life? This year I chose to fight the ‘lies that wanted to live rent free in my head’. I have learned things are not always what they appear to be. Hence, my frame of reference cannot always be what I see with my naked eyes. Many things are just like a mirage – an illusion. Just like this shot taken above, it’s just an illusion. I am not freefalling into a lighted tunnel. Often what we ‘see’ or perceive in life is all about the lens through which we are looking. Sometimes our vantage point can also give us a skewed view of life.
Lies we’ve bought into have a way of crippling us mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Be watchful – be careful who has your ears and who has a seat at your table. Fact check the voices spiraling around head – those trying to agitate your heart and mind. The Voice of Truth always tells the correct story.
Dear Friend:
You’re enough. God doesn’t work with who you pretend to be. He works with who you are – flaws, cracks and all. Age doesn’t define your purpose; you’re never too old [or young] to dream. You can always start again. Know when to get up from the table where you aren’t welcomed. There is a place that has been uniquely carved out for you. Find it and never leave your seat empty. You belong. Harness your unrealistic expectations of those in your space. People can’t give you what they don’t have. There’s only One who is All-Sufficient. Turn your eyes to Him. Extend grace to the imperfect you [and me]. If people leave, maybe they were not meant to be part of that next chapter. That season of mourning wasn’t meant to be a lifetime of pain. Breathe again- live again. Love again. God is not mad at you. It’s okay to ask Him a question without ‘questioning’ Him. Guard your peace at all cost. Being right is highly overrated. Some battles were not meant to be fought by you. Choose wisely where you expend your time and energy. It’s okay to not be the strong one today. His strength is perfect for days like these. Love yourself enough to say no. To find the time to do nothing and be okay with that. Be at peace with your inability to fix that thing. It is not your job to fix the people in your circle. People change only when they want to. Some questions don’t need to be asked. Not every question deserves an answer. That season of stretching will yield increase – it’s not meant to be punitive. On the other side, you will be stronger and wiser. Be cautious of who and what has become your North Star, your guiding compass. Not every way that ‘seems right to man’ leads to life.
‘From My Heart to Yours’
This scripture is food for my soul as I enter 2025. Maybe you’d like to join me on this walk of faith.
“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” [1 Corinthians 16: 13,14 NLT]
Restored Hearts 