God can change things. Outlook determines outcome. Seeing only problems can lead to defeat but seeing the possibilities in problems can lead to victory. I want to be the kind of girl that looks for possibilities - Enlarging my faith, by trusting in the Word of God and seeking Him in prayer.

It’s funny how life changes rather quickly; or at least it feels that way. One moment you’re heading in a certain direction, the next, you’re turning onto a different route. This is can be hard, and trust me, for me it’s never been easy. Yet I’ve learned to embrace each season that God has me in, take in all I can, and keep moving as He leads me. Lately, I’ve been in this season of rest. I’ve slowed down SO much in comparison to a few months back. It’s so weird for me. I’ve always been used to a fast paced life. I mean, I’m from Los Angeles and I’m 22; We’re not really a slow bunch. It’s funny how much we can learn when we’re just slowing down our pace, or even, being still.

Since taking up a new job and a cleared schedule, I’ve been so blessed. I love my job and I’m glad I have more time for my family and friendships. I realized how much I missed out on. I wasn’t deepening roots in the friendships that God set around me like I could have. I also realized that I was missing out on opportunities to love on and bless someone. That’s not to disreguard the seasons before, those were incredibly powerful, but God is teaching me something different about my gifts and about ministry. I’ve encountered so many folks who are just looking for someone who is just willing to listen, to impart wisdom, and enjoy life with them. The funny part is, most of these people were near me constantly.. where was I before?

People are looking for someone who will love them for who they are. As a Christian, it’s so important that we impart the same love, grace and mercy to others at all times - family, friends, or aquiantances.. People you love and even the people that may not love you. We don’t have the option to treat them differently. What’s crazy, is that I’ve learned this especially with my mother. It has been, as you know or don’t, a painful journey with her. I’ve dealt with heartache, with unforgiveness, with disappointment and a very cold heart toward her. I had every right to be upset. I remembered raising my hand for prayer in church one Sunday regarding family relationships. My pastor said “I didn’t say this in any other service, but there is someone here today who has every right to be upset with their family member, but God says you are to show them mercy”. This shook me. I knew that was for me. So then I gave up my fighting and began to act on God’s word. [Side note: It’s amazing what can happen when we’re obedient to the word of God, it leads to an incredible freedom.]  I started to make time for my mom, hearing her out, visiting her, allowing her to cry with me, laughing with her, imparting wisdom from the Word and simply saying I love you. I felt a wound that has been so large in me begin to heal. I never would have thought. My wounded mother, dispite all her choices, just needed my presence in her life. She just needed my attention. It has been healing for her, and she’s regaining strength and finding God again in a new and fresh way.   

I’ve been making time when I can to sit down with folks, or just intentionally spending time alone because I know that God has someone I need to meet. Even if I’m doing something such as serving at church, going to the store, picking up a coffee I’m learning to make it a point to encourage someone, love and laugh with them. As much as I am about leading large groups of people (because I am so passionate for the generations), I have so developed a greater love for just the ONE; the individual who has a purpose for their lives! This is what my Savior Jesus was about. I can’t begin to tell you how many people who are either Christians or not that just need someone to just talk to, someone to connet with. Friends, let’s remember these people (each other). Jesus was about the ONE. Every single one. Wherever we are let’s keep a Kingdom mindset, a compassionate heart because of the mercy we’ve been shown from our Savior, and let’s be intentional with our time - even amongst one other. Let’s further the Kingdom of God. Let’s build one another up again. Let’s spark passion for God and one another by the way we live, as we pursue Christ. If you’re in a busy season, look up and around a bit more, I know you’ll see those lives you need to connect with. If you’re not in a busy season, make it a point to show love and encouragement to someone. I promise you it is life changing, even for you.

Enough with my ranting, I love you guys.. Have a great day :)

Pretty cool.. Thanks LA Times :)