Inspiring For Excellence
The reality of life is this--
Challenges happen. The challenges may be in our personal life with family or friends. The challenge may be professional as we are faced with ethical issues on the job, conflicts with colleagues, or loss of a position. The challenge may be internal--a sudden illness, an ongoing illness, or struggles with mental and emotional health. In each of these scenarios, the Word of God ensures us that we are empowered through our relationship with Christ and His Spirit living within us to stand, to persevere, to overcome. God does not promise that we will not have problems. Rather, He assures us that we will not be defeated!
​
Prayer...
Lord, remind us daily of our strength and hope in You. We can do all things through Christ, who strengthens us!
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
I confess that I frequently revisit my past mistakes--I relive them. I analyze my decision-making process. I sometimes wonder, "what if?"
And then God's Spirit reminds me,
"Forget what is behind you. Learn the lessons I've taught you. Lean into the future I've prepared for you. Share the lessons you have learned and teach others what you have learned about me." It is valuable to reflect on our past, just don't linger. It's more important to focus on the future, to pour into others, to leave a legacy of faith.
​
Prayer...
Lord, strengthen me as I lean into the future You have prepared for me. I thank You for a relationship with You; for Your Spirit living within me; and for the opportunity to pour into the lives of others!
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
We all come from different places, different backgrounds, and different histories. Our background can cause us to doubt ourselves, particularly when we find ourselves as a "first" in a new space. Never forget that God is intentional. He created you the way you needed to be for the assignment He has for you. Others may initially doubt you, even unfairly judge you. That's alright. Jesus came from Nazareth. Whatever your "Nazareth" is thrive in your development, and then thrive wherever God plants you.
​
Prayer...
Lord, strengthen us as we step into the places You have planned for us. Let us always look to You and not the approval of others as we live out
our God-given destiny!
In Jesus' Name. Amen.
It can be difficult to shut out all of the noise and confusion of our daily life. Everyone has an opinion, and most opinions seem to be shared at the loudest volume level possible. Given this reality, it is more critical than ever to hear the words of James--
Listen deeply. Speak with intentionality and thoughtfulness. Control your responses.
We are not slaves to our impulses. We are not captive to negative thought--unless we yield to those thoughts.
We have the power to be the voice that brings clarity to confusion when we allow God's Spirit to speak through us. Let's embrace the opportunities we have to bring a calm spirit and voice to a chaotic world.
​
Prayer...
Lord, thank You for the power You have given us to intentionally Listen, Learn, and Act each day of our life. Teach us how to hear Your voice amid the noise. Give us a heart to obey Your Spirit as we interact with others.
In Jesus' Name. Amen.