Hello beautiful people! Wow! I can’t believe I’m back. It has almost been three months since my last post, “R E S T : What Does It Mean?” I guess you all are thinking, “It’s about time! What in the world have you been up to?”
Well my friends, to be honest, I’ve been running. No, not physically, but from God’s calling in my life.
I allowed my emotions, life obstacles and distractions take control of my actions, which deteriorated me from being transparent with you all and sharing what was truly going on during that time of my life. For that, I truly do apologize and pray you stay to read more.
Although this season isn’t quite over, I can finally say I am now able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. During my unannounced sabbatical, God provided me with five eye-opening life lessons that taught me how to see over my current issue and into His bigger picture. Today, I would like to share those lessons with you in hopes that they help you do the same.
1. Love yourself for you, not for man’s approval. At the end of the day the only body you can sleep in is your own,. Not your best friend, close friend or frenemy– just you. So, instead of disliking yourself, begin to embrace yourself and love you for who God has called you to be, not man. Don’t compare yourself to others. God’s got you right were He wants you.
2. Do you recall wanting to know God’s purpose for you here on Earth? You were so ready to receive an assignment from Him you would practically do anything to get His attention. I remember praying profusely to receive a prophetic word on His purpose for me and when I finally received it I was ecstatic. However, as I began to move forward with the assignment, distractions would come. One being the thought of me not having enough knowledge and tools to get started. Now, from the eyes of man that may be true, but God had to remind me that He’s able to do things exceedingly, abundantly and above ALL that I could ever ask or think of. So, although my flesh was seeing things from a negative perspective, I made the choice to be grateful with what I had, and know God would bless me with more. I believe Zechariah chapter 4 verse 10 explains this lesson best . It states, “ Do not despise small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin”.
3. For those of you who do not know, I’ve been blogging for three years. My first blog was “Christians in College,” which led to “REFRESH Magazine” and now I’m here on “My Journey to REFRESH”. During these transitions I experienced severe doubt. I would doubt that my work was not good enough and people wouldn’t read it. I would become jealous of social media because every bloggers’ life looked so perfect. I even got to a point where I wouldn’t even partake in posting anything because I felt my life was uninteresting. During my sabbatical, one night I attended an entrepreneurial workshop. While there, I shared with the host my problem and she informed me I shouldn’t stop what I’ve been called to do just because I had not seen any results. Talk about a wake up call! She then stated not everyone would admit they’re going through what I post about. She suggested instead of my focus relying on numbers, 👍 or 🧡 , it should always remain on what God originally told me to do and how He in all would receive the glory. I will admit this lesson has been a tough cookie to swallow and I’m still digesting it. Nevertheless, it has taught me how to conquer my fears which leads to my next lesson.
4. This summer, I was given the opportunity to travel to Mexico to spend time with my extended family and bring in my birthday. In fact , on the day of my birthday, I took a huge risk and did something I NEVER thought I would do. I went snorkeling! Did I mention, I did not know how to swim?! That entire experience is a story in itself, but to keep it short, I was reminded to cherish every moment of my life, be adventurous and have fun. God allowed me to step out of me comfort zone, fight my fears and conquer them.
5. Overall, the major lesson I received in this season was, it is impossible to avoid trials, so I must learn to be at peace with them and rejoice because they will not last forever. I believe John 16 verse 33 explains this lesson the best. For the Lord says, “In this world we will have tribulation, but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.” Our Father knows our problems, he sees the obstacles we face, he knows the emotions that drag along with these situations. I guess you are now wondering, “If he sees these things, why must we go through them” ? Well my friends, His son, Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. He laid down His life for each and every one of us and took on every single one of our sins in order for us to be free. Since, Jesus experienced such horrific trial, we must go through them as well. Although this season has not been easy I’ve learned to become joyful and continue to praise because I know this too shall pass.
Before you go…
Did you learn a thing or two from the lessons shared in this post? If so, what were they? What are some lessons you plan to incorporate in your life the next time you experience a trial?
Let me know in the comments below.
Great lessons!! I resonated with all of these lessons especially the ones about embracing small beginnings! I’ve been seeking God about my purpose, but when he revealed it I started to worry I feel inadequate & I am experiencing all the same worries you did. However your blog gave me hope and encouraged me!! Thank YOU.
Amen Mari!! I’ll be sure to jot those lessons down for personal usage. Thanks for sharing
Some lessons I’ve learned to incorporate in my life to help with trials, is patience and still praying and thanking God in the wilderness season. We’re supposed to thank him and praise him through the good and what appears to be “bad”. So im going to count it all joy, keep faith, and keep pressing. Amen. Oh and beautiful pictures!!