Failure. The very word can send shivers down our spines, ignite a surge of anxiety, and sometimes even paralyze us from taking the next step. As Christians, failure can become a formidable obstacle, hindering us from exploring new opportunities, chasing our dreams, or fully living out our faith. However, it's crucial to recognize that succumbing to this fear is not how God intends for us to live.

For too long, the fear of failure held me captive. I found myself stuck in a cycle of hesitation and self-doubt, unwilling to step out of my “comfort zone” for fear of falling short.

When I was younger, I refused to try new sports, participate in new clubs, or befriend new people. As I got older, I stuck to hobbies I knew I was good at despite wanting to branch out and try a new skill. I chose a major in college in which I knew I would excel. As an adult, I put off my writing career way longer than I should have for fear that no one would read my content. I turned down leadership and speaking engagements at church because I feared I would sound stupid and not make an impact. I didn’t join small groups or attend events where I didn’t know anyone in fear that I wouldn’t make new friends. I could go on and on with examples of things I didn’t do that could have enriched my life and furthered my purpose in Christ because of fear.

However, more recently through prayer, reflection, and studying God's word, I have come to understand that failure is not something to be afraid of, but rather embraced as a part of our journey towards growth and fulfillment. I decided that I was going to step out in faith even if it led to failure. I would write, even if no one read it. I would reach out to others, even if they did not reciprocate. I realized that even if I fail, if I am sincerely following God’s lead in my life, He will make another way and I will get back up and carry on.

The apostle Paul reminds us in Timothy that fear is not from God.

This powerful scripture serves as a beacon of hope, reassuring us that the fear of failure does not originate from God. Instead, He equips us with the strength, love, and clarity of mind needed to overcome our fears and pursue His purpose for our lives.

 As Christians, we are called to live boldly and courageously, trusting in God's plan for us even when we face uncertainty or setbacks. In Joshua 1:9, God commanded Joshua, saying,

This promise applies to us as well, reminding us that we are never alone in our endeavors. God remains with us, even when we fail.

 Failure is an inevitable part of life. As the Word of God tells us in Proverbs: 

This verse both implies that failure can be expected, and also underscores the resilience of those who trust in the Lord, emphasizing that even in the face of failure, we have the strength to rise again and continue moving forward.

The fear of failure in my life was rooted to the improper core belief that if I failed at something, it meant that I was a failure. It's important to recognize that failure does not define us. Our worth and identity are rooted in Christ Jesus our Lord, not in our successes or failures.

This truth in the book of Romans empowers us to persevere in the face of adversity, knowing that nothing can separate us from the love of God and failure does not change our inherent worth.

Instead of allowing the fear of failure to hold us back, we must shift our perspective and view failure as an opportunity for growth and learning. Just as a muscle grows stronger through resistance, so too do we mature and develop resilience through the challenges we face. As James 1:2-4 encourages us,

In my own journey, I've learned that some of life's greatest lessons and blessings come from moments of failure. When we embrace failure with humility and resilience, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and opportunities for growth. Instead of allowing fear to dictate our actions, join me in trusting in God's faithfulness and take bold steps forward, knowing that He is with us every step of the way and will redirect us as necessary.

As young adults reading this, you stand on the brink of new beginnings and face the uncertainties of life after school. I encourage you to take heart and start your journey with the right perspective. Embrace faith over fear, knowing that God will pick you up each time you fall. Run your race with determination and when you stumble, don't stay down. Get back up, make any necessary adjustments, and start running again. Your path may have obstacles, but every fall is an opportunity to learn, grow, and become stronger. Trust that God is with you in every step, ready to guide you and give you the strength to persevere.

As you navigate the ups and downs of life, hold fast to the truth of God's word and the assurance of His presence. With God as your strength and guide, you can face failure with confidence, knowing that He is working all things together for your good (See Romans 8:28). I encourage you to not let the fear of failure paralyze you. Instead, embrace failure as a natural part of life's journey and an opportunity for growth. Trust in God's promises, knowing that He has equipped you with everything you need to overcome your fears and failures, and pursue His purpose for your life.

I remember it like it was yesterday. I was a teenager at my grandparents’ house in Ohio. My Aunt Connie, who I barely knew at the time, was sitting at the table and asked me if I wanted to learn a card game. My shy, timid, perfectionist self was not thrilled about this invitation. In the five seconds it took me to answer her, I thought of at least eight reasons why I shouldn’t play – I may not be good at it, I may look stupid, I may not remember the rules, etc. But the people pleaser inside of me won and I said yes. My grandpa, dad, aunt and I sat down at the table as she explained the rules. In the game, you have a partner. So my grandpa and my dad became partners and my aunt and I became partners for that night. After about three hands of this game, my aunt looked at me and said, “You have a natural talent for this game, you must be my partner!” I was floored – I was the kid who always got picked last for everything. I didn’t know what was ahead of me when I said, “okay,” but I can tell you now that one decision would change my life.

Certain people in your life leave a divine impact on you and add value in ways you could never expect. Connie didn’t forget about asking me to be her partner the next time our family gathered. In fact, she made it her mission to teach our whole extended family the card game so we could hold tournaments at our family cottage in Ohio. Our family cottage is a cherished place, where laughter echoes through the air and family bonds are strengthened over card games, volleyball and other various activities. My aunt stood as a radiant force – the “Director of Fun and Shenanigans” – adding immeasurable value to our gatherings.

Connie added value by fostering an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of skill or experience, was welcomed and valued. No idea was a bad idea in her mind and there was always something fun we could do with each unique idea presented by different family members or friends. It was an environment I wasn’t used to and didn’t experience in other areas of my life. She didn’t care if my hobbies were the same as hers, if I was in a younger generation than she was, if my sense of humor was different than hers, or if my performance that day was top notch or not. We had almost as much fun losing the tournaments as we did winning them. But make no mistake – we won many times.

Connie ensured everyone had a place at the table, no matter if you were a seasoned player or a novice. Her warm smile and encouraging words created an atmosphere where the joy of participation far outweighed the desire for victory. For me, who often let the pressure to excel hold me back in life, this atmosphere she created allowed me to experience freedom from performance anxiety. I knew that I could be completely myself and would be loved and accepted for who I am.

My aunt's inclusive spirit finds resonance in the teachings of Jesus, who sought out the company of those society deemed outcasts. Jesus didn’t seek out those with the best resumes or those who ran with the “popular” crowd. He ate with tax collectors (Matthew 9), spent time with a Samaritan woman (John 4), healed lepers (Matthew 8), and went out of His way to extend love where it wasn’t expected. In our family gatherings, she mirrored this love by reaching out to everyone, ensuring that no one felt like an outsider. Like Jesus embracing the marginalized and inferior, Connie extended her warmth to family members and friends alike, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and unity.

In the midst of card games and various activities, Connie embodied the joyous philosophy of finding happiness in the present moment. Whether it was a game of cards on the porch, a trip to the store for candy, or trying her best to play volleyball, she reveled in the simple pleasures of life. Her laughter became the soundtrack to our gatherings, a reminder that joy could be found in the smallest of moments.

As we continue to gather at the cottage, I am inspired to carry forward my aunt's legacy of inclusivity and joy. In the shuffle of cards and the laughter that reverberates through our family games, I see an opportunity to create lasting memories and strengthen the ties that bind us. Connie's influence encourages me to be a source of acceptance, ensuring that every person I meet in life feels important and included.

My aunt's impact on our family gatherings transcends the realm of card games and activities. Her legacy is a testament to the power of love, acceptance, and joy in bringing people together. The value she added to my life is more than I can explain to you in this brief article. Being her card partner was one of the greatest joys of my life. While she is no longer here with us and is now at home with Jesus, her spirit lives on in each one of us who loved her and had the blessing of knowing her. I guarantee you the fun and shenanigans will live on in her honor, and we will all remember how she played a huge part in taking a family of very different personalities and creating an atmosphere of love and fun.

As you reflect on the joyous moments and connections you share with your family, friends, or others in your life, consider how you can infuse Connie's spirit into your own gatherings. How can you ensure that everyone feels valued and included? Let us carry forward her torch, creating a legacy of love that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

In the Spring 2023 edition of VOICES magazine, I wrote an article titled, "Take the Leap." In that article, I shared about my journey of stepping into the unknown by leaving my full-time career and taking a job with less hours so that I could pursue my passion to write. I had felt called to writing for a very long time but was always too afraid to step into the unknown or leave the security of a stable income. Once I took that leap and started working part-time, I was uncertain about where or how to start, and the prospect of navigating this uncharted territory seemed daunting. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of a remarkable journey—one that would lead me to become a published author sooner than I ever thought possible. This article will dive deeper into the concept of taking the next step in faith and how it can transform not only your passion but your entire purpose.

Starting a new chapter in life can be intimidating. When I embarked on my writing journey, I met uncertainties and insecurities that seemed insurmountable. Where did I start? What should I write first? What platform should I use? Should I focus on what brings in money or what I feel called to write? What if I’m not good enough? What if no one reads what I write? These questions filled my head, but in those moments of doubt, I chose to take the next step rather than succumb to the fear of the unknown. It was during this time that I prayed about and decided to channel my creativity into crafting a children's book. I didn’t realize that this seemingly small step would set the course for a fulfilling journey ahead.

As I delved into the world of writing, roadblocks appeared in various forms. Whether it was the challenges of finding the right storyline, grappling with self-doubt, or navigating technological difficulties, the journey was far from smooth. Yet, every obstacle became an opportunity to take a next step, learn, and grow. God met me each step of the way and provided what I needed in those moments. I spent time studying the platforms I was using, prayed about the words I was writing, asked for encouragement from loved ones when I was down, and kept persevering. These challenges were not roadblocks to halt my progress but rather steppingstones that propelled me forward.

If I had allowed the initial uncertainties and obstacles to deter me, I wouldn't be sharing this story today. Through consistent effort and the willingness to take the next step, I emerged as a published author. I now have 2 children’s books published and available on Amazon, both with morally sound and encouraging life lessons for young children. This experience has taught me a profound lesson: faith is not just about taking the initial leap, it's about the continuous journey of taking the next step, no matter how small, in the direction you believe God is leading you. Through taking next steps, I have found such joy in writing and illustrating children’s books and have built confidence within myself to pursue whatever God is calling me to do next.

As Christine Caine once said, “If we don’t want to get stuck where we are, then we will have to take a risk to get where God wants us to be.” Life has a way of presenting us with choices—choices that can either lead to growth and purpose or result in stagnation. Just as I had to choose to move forward in my writing journey, we must choose to take the next step in faith. When we feel that nudge, that divine leading, it's crucial to act on it. Stagnation occurs when we resist the call to progress. It's in taking those small steps of faith that we align ourselves with our true purpose.

So, here's the challenge for you: What step of faith is beckoning you? What dream or passion lies dormant within you waiting to be pursued? Don't let the fear of the unknown hold you back. Take the next step. Whether it's starting a new project, pursuing a career change, or embracing a relationship, trust that each step is a part of a larger, purposeful journey. The path may be unclear, but with each step, you move closer to the fulfilling life that awaits.

Remember that faith is not a one-time leap, but a continuous series of steps taken in the direction of your purpose. Embrace the journey, navigate the roadblocks, and watch as each step unfolds a chapter of your life that you never imagined possible. Your story is waiting to be written—one faith step at a time.

As the sun cast a soft glow over the Venetian canals, I stood on the edge of an adventure that would forever shape my perspective. The allure of Italy, with its rich history, captivating art, and picturesque landscapes, had beckoned me to embark on a journey that would take me through Venice, Florence, Rome, and the idyllic island of Capri. Little did I know, this adventure would not only showcase Italy's treasures but also provide a profound connection to a timeless truth: God calls us to enjoy every moment of the journey, not just the destination.

In a world often fixated on reaching goals and checking off accomplishments, I found comfort in the notion that God invites us to savor each step of our journey. Just as the Creator painted the skies with changing seasons, He also colors our lives with experiences, relationships, and moments to cherish. As I embarked on this Italian vacation, I felt God's whisper to relish the journey itself, to find joy in every twist and turn, and to understand that the act of living is just as meaningful as reaching any destination.

Venice

 Upon arriving in Venice, I was immediately struck by the unique beauty of a city built upon water. The serenading gondoliers, the graceful bridges, and the historic architecture painted a romantic and intricate tapestry. As I wandered through the narrow alleyways and crossed over countless bridges, it struck me that Venice's network of canals mirrored life's unpredictable pathways. Just as the waterways led me to hidden squares and unexpected corners, so too does life reveal its mysteries and joys as we navigate its twists and turns.

In the face of unforeseen detours, Venice taught me the importance of embracing change and finding delight in the unexpected. “Wrong” turns led to quaint shops, delicious gelato and welcoming locals. The "enjoy the journey” mentality became a compass guiding me to savor every step, whether on the cobblestone streets or aboard a gently rocking gondola.

Florence

Embracing the Art of Living

As the train whisked me away to Florence, I found myself immersed in a city that radiated art, culture, and creativity. Florence's heart, represented by the magnificent Duomo, soared towards the heavens, a symbol of our innate desire to elevate our spirits toward God. The intricate details of the cathedral's architecture spoke volumes about the dedication and craftsmanship of its creators, a reflection of God's supreme craftsmanship in creating our lives.

As I gazed upon the intricate exterior of the Duomo, I couldn't help but draw parallels between its construction and our own personal growth. Just as the cathedral's complex mosaic patterns were meticulously laid one piece at a time, our lives are shaped by the accumulation of experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The "enjoy the journey” mentality echoed through the cathedral's soaring arches, reminding me that wonder and awe can be found every step of the way. Just as the Duomo stands as a testament to human ingenuity and aspiration, our lives stand as a testament to the grace and guidance of our Heavenly Father, as we journey toward our ultimate destination – His eternal presence.

Rome

Time Traveling Through History

 Arriving in Rome felt like stepping through a time portal, where the echoes of history reverberated through every stone and arch. The Colosseum stood as a testament to the passage of time and the endurance of the human spirit. As I wandered the ancient streets, it struck me that Rome's layers of history resembled the chapters of a well-worn book, each telling a story of triumph, struggle, and evolution.

As I looked at the Pantheon's ingenious architecture, it beckoned me to contemplate the delicate balance between light and shadow – much like my own journey of faith, where clarity and mystery unite. I recognized how faith embraces both the known and the unknown. The symbolism wasn't lost on me – the oculus became a divine window, just as faith itself acts as a window to deeper understanding.  As the sunlight reveals hidden beauty within the Pantheon's walls, so our faith also unveils profound truths.

 Rome encouraged me to embrace the "enjoy the journey" mentality by recognizing the value of every stage in life's journey. Just as Rome's ruins bore witness to past glories, our experiences – both joyful and challenging – contribute to the narrative of who we are. Each step through the Eternal City was a reminder that, like history, our lives are rich tapestries woven from moments that deserve celebration.

Capri

Basking in Nature's Splendor

Capri's serene landscapes provided a contrasting yet equally enchanting chapter of my Italian adventure. The bright blue waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages offered a backdrop of natural beauty that stirred the soul. As I walked along picturesque trails and sailed the waters surrounding the island, I felt a deep connection to the island's tranquility - a reflection of the profound peace that God provides. Just as Capri's breathtaking beauty called for reverent appreciation, so too does our journey in faith inspire us to treasure life's moments of quiet contemplation.

Capri taught me the art of slowing down and pausing to find solace in God's presence. The "enjoy the journey” mentality was evident in the way I reveled in the island's splendor, embracing each breath of fresh sea air and each breathtaking view. It was a reminder that life's journey is not only about conquering challenges but also about relishing the simple joys that come our way.

As I reflect on my whirlwind adventure through Venice, Florence, Rome, and Capri, I'm profoundly struck by the spiritual insights each destination unveiled. God’s whisper to "enjoy the journey" resonated deeply, and Italy's cities and landscapes echoed this sentiment with divine resonance. From the intricate canals of Venice to Florence's artistic inspiration, from the historical tapestry of Rome to the tranquil serenity of Capri, Italy's voyage became a divine metaphor for the intricate narrative of life itself. The twists, turns, and surprises hold purpose within the greater design, inviting us to savor every step on the sacred journey. Italy's beauty was more than skin deep; it held a mirror to the complexities of existence, urging me to enjoy the journey not just during travel but also in the everyday. Italy taught me that life is not a destination but a series of interconnected moments, each worthy of celebration. So, whether on the cobblestone streets of Venice or amidst the bustling crowds of Rome, I've learned that the true art lies in finding joy in the journey itself.

As you navigate the adventure of life, I encourage you to reflect on the lessons learned from my Italian adventure and to enjoy your journey. Embrace the twists and turns, the serene moments and the excitement, for each thread contributes to the beautiful tapestry woven by the Divine Artist. Just as Italy's beauty unveiled itself in its own time, so too will the treasures of your journey reveal themselves as you live life to the fullest. May your path be as enchanting as Venice's canals, as inspiring as Florence's art, as rich as Rome's history, and as serene as Capri's landscapes. With faith as your guide, step forth, embrace the sacred adventure, and above all, rejoice in the journey's profound communion with God.

As Christians, we believe that we have been rescued by God. We were lost, but now we have been found. We were dead in our sins, but now we have been made alive in Christ Jesus. This theme of God's deliverance is a prominent one in the Bible, and it is often coupled with a call to action.

In the book of Exodus, we see God delivering the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. But He doesn't just rescue them and then leave them to fend for themselves. Instead, He gives them a set of laws and commandments that are meant to guide them as they live in their newfound freedom. He also tells them to be a "kingdom of priests" and a "holy nation" (Exodus 19:6), which implies that they are meant to be a light to the nations around them.

In the New Testament, we see a similar pattern. Jesus doesn't just come to save us from our sins and then disappear. Instead, He tells His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19), which is a clear call to action. After He ascends into heaven, the Holy Spirit comes upon the disciples and empowers them to be witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Today, our call is to partner with God to do the good works He has prepared for us, which includes sharing our rescue story with others.

So, what does this mean for us? How does our own experience of being rescued by God empower us to serve others? First, it helps us to see people in a different light. When we realize that we were once lost and in need of rescue ourselves, we gain the ability to have compassion for others who are still in that state. We can see them as fellow human beings who are loved by God, rather than as "projects" to be converted or as "problems" to be solved.

Second, our own experience of rescue gives us purpose. We were rescued for a reason. As the apostle Paul says: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).  Our salvation is not just a personal gift, but it is also a commission to go out, do His works, and spread the good news.

Below is a list of practical ways that we can serve others. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the needs of the world and to think that we can't make a difference. But the truth is that even small acts of kindness and love can have a big impact. Here are a few ideas of where to start.

These may seem like small things, but by doing those things that God has prepared for us to do, we can make a big difference in someone's life. As we serve others, we are also fulfilling our calling as Christians. We read about this in the book of Philippians.  It says:

Another way that we can serve others is by sharing our own stories of rescue. When we talk about the ways that God has rescued us, we offer hope and encouragement to others who may be going through similar struggles. As I’ve mentioned in previous issues of VOICES, I struggled with poor self-image and comparison for most of my teenage and adult life. When God rescued me from that, it sparked a new passion within me to help other young women recognize their unchanging worth in God and walk a life of confidence knowing to Whom they belong. Since that time, I have loved mentoring young women and serving as a small group leader because I’m able to say to these girls, “I’ve been there, I understand, and I empathize. I also know the way out so take my hand and I’ll show you how God rescued me from this.” By helping those with similar struggles, we also remind ourselves of God's faithfulness and goodness, which can be a source of strength when we face new challenges.

Finally, it's important to remember that serving others is a form of worship. When we serve others, we are not just meeting their needs; we are also expressing our gratitude to God for all that he has done for us. As the apostle Paul says:

Our service to others is not just a good deed or a way to make ourselves feel better. It is an act of worship that honors God and shows our gratitude for all that He has rescued us from.

As Christians, we have been rescued by God. But our rescue is not the end of the story. It is just the beginning. We are called to be rescuers ourselves, to serve others and to spread the love and grace of God wherever we go. Our own experience of rescue can empower us to do this, giving us a sense of purpose and compassion for others. As we serve others, we are also worshiping God and honoring him with our lives. So, let us not forget that we have been rescued to rescue. Let us be people who seek to serve others, to love them as Christ Jesus has loved us, and to spread the good news of the gospel wherever we go. May we be empowered by the Holy Spirit to be a light in a dark world, and may we always remember that we have been rescued for a reason.

When I was a little girl, my dad would stand at the bottom of the stairs and catch me while I jumped from higher up on the stairs. At first, he would let me jump from only a few steps high. But that wasn’t because of my fear – it was out of his loving caution. Every time I would jump, I would beg him to let me go up just one more step. Eventually, I was jumping from halfway up the stairs. I never doubted for one moment that he would catch me, because he always did. I had complete faith in him to protect me and keep me safe. As I ponder the way I approach and trust the Lord, I can’t help but ask myself if I trust my heavenly Father like I trust my earthly father.

If I’m able to trust my earthly father, who is imperfect, certainly I should be able to have childlike faith in my heavenly Father, who is perfect.

Childlike faith is an essential part of the Christian faith. It is a term that refers to the simple, trusting faith that children have in their parents. It is a faith that is characterized by trust, joy, and a sense of security. Just as I leapt into my father’s arms and trusted my father, we are called to have this same childlike faith in God’s love and care for us. The measure of our childlike faith can be seen in the way that we approach new challenges and opportunities in our lives.

A real-life example of this in my life was being faced with a new job opportunity. I have always had a dream in my heart to write since I was a little girl. I knew for years that God was impressing on my heart the desire to write Christian content, but that the season was not here yet. More recently, I’ve felt that it is time to take the leap and trust the Lord with my dream. I was terrified. It can be scary to leave a familiar job and jump into something new and unknown. And if you know me, you know that I hate the unknown. So the thought of stepping into something unfamiliar to me tested my childlike faith, and I was struggling to reconcile what I was hearing in prayer.

My husband and I had a prayer night at our house not too long ago. One of my husband’s friends, who does not know me well at all, had a word of knowledge for me that night. A word of knowledge, in this context, is when the Lord provides divine knowledge and insight into a situation that the person would not have otherwise known. This word of knowledge will often confirm what you have already been hearing from the Lord in prayer and should always align with scripture. This man said to me:

That word and that night changed everything for me.

When we have childlike faith in God, we can trust that He has a plan for our lives and that He will guide us through any challenges we may face. I may not feel qualified or equipped to reach people with my writing. I may not know the right path or where to start, but I know that God’s hand is on this, and I can trust Him to catch me when I jump.

I had now heard from God that it was time to make the transition to writing, had that promise confirmed through the word of knowledge, and prayerfully considered options with my husband. So, I left my job and accepted a different job with less hours so that I can start writing and operating in what I believe I was created to do. As I take the leap, I’m learning to operate in childlike faith with my career.

In my learning, I’m realizing we can approach new opportunities with joy and excitement rather than fear and anxiety. We can trust that God is with us every step of the way and that He will provide for us. Jesus Himself spoke about the importance of childlike faith.

Jesus is calling us to approach our faith with the same simplicity and trust that children have. We can relinquish our fears and doubts, knowing that He will hold us close. When we trust in Him completely, we can experience the fullness of His love, peace, and grace.

My story started with my father, but maybe it wasn’t your father who had your trust growing up. Maybe it was your mom, sibling, aunt, uncle, grandparent, or someone else. Think about how worthy that person was of your trust. Now think about how much more worthy a perfect, all-loving God is of your trust. What is your next step? What dream has God breathed into your heart? Jump with me into the safe arms of our Father with childlike faith and trust Him to guide the way.

 New seasons can be both exciting and challenging. I believe there is a lot of grace for new seasons because the Lord knows we are going to awkwardly stumble around until we get our footing. In my life, the newest season I’ve walked into is marriage. I got married in July of 2022 and it was the greatest decision I’ve ever made in my life. A marriage between two followers of Jesus is incredible. Marriage is also sanctifying, and I’ve found myself needing that extra grace as I stumble through uncharted territory. Marriage is one of many new seasons that grow you in ways you didn’t know you needed to grow and urge you to become more like Jesus.

When you get married, you stand before God and each other promising to give 100% effort all of the time. You promise to prioritize your partner’s needs above your own and unselfishly love them for the rest of your life. There is true beauty in those promises. Those promises are very easy to live out on your wedding day and when you are on your honeymoon. You are at an all-time high, running on adrenaline and endorphins. I like to call it the bliss period - every new season has one. However, when that is over and you get back to real life, long workdays, rough nights of sleep, moving into a new house, and dividing up the chores, those promises you made can become more of a struggle to fulfill. Our flesh is wired to be selfish, so when loving others seems inconvenient, people are less likely to choose the selfless response.

In the few months I’ve been married, I’ve learned many ways that I can be selfish, and I know my husband has as well. In this new season, we have both had to rely on God to be our source so that we can meet the other’s needs. As Christians, we are always becoming more like Jesus every day, and new seasons can push us further into that sanctification process.

 I’ve found that reading about how Jesus interacted with others inspires me to live like He did, not just in my marriage but also with everyone I interact with. The main theme I’ve found in all of these stories is that Jesus had inconvenient compassion for those around Him. In Luke 9:10-17, Jesus withdrew from the crowds with His disciples to have alone time. However, the crowds heard about it and followed Him. He could have told them to leave – that’s what the disciples urged him to do. But the Bible says Jesus welcomed them, spoke to them about the Lord, healed those who needed to be healed, and fed them. Before we rush past the part where Jesus fed the crowd, let’s call attention to the fact that the crowd was 5,000 men, not including women and children. Let’s also remember that the only food they had with them were five loaves of bread and two fish. It would have been easy to say that they didn't have enough food and call it a night. But Jesus instead gave thanks to His Father and performed a miracle where those five loaves and two fish fed every person there until they were satisfied and also filled two baskets of leftovers. All of this took place immediately after Jesus had found out that John the Baptist had been put to death (Matthew 14:1-12). This may just be the greatest example of inconvenient compassion ever to take place. Jesus had just lost a loved one and didn't consider that He needed time for Himself. He knew the greatest victory over the enemy's plans is to love other hurting people instead of focusing on His own grief.

You read countless times in the gospels of how Jesus was kind to those who others overlooked. He took time to acknowledge and help people. In Mark 5:25-34, we read about how a woman who bled for 12 years touched Jesus’ robe and was healed. Jesus could feel that power had been drawn out of Him, and He could have chosen to carry on through the crowd to His next destination. That would have been the most convenient choice. But again, He chose inconvenient compassion, and stopped to acknowledge the woman that everyone else had outcasted for 12 years. He asked who touched His robe and, when she spoke up, He told her,

Not only did He stop to acknowledge her, but He also called her daughter, claiming her as His own.

These are just two examples of Jesus loving others and putting their needs above His own. Both examples illustrate times when it would have been easier to continue on with His own plans. Instead, He chose to go out of His way to meet others’ needs. I don’t know about you, but Jesus is my role model. In this season, I am attempting to walk hand in hand with Jesus and see others, especially my husband, through God’s eyes. I want to provide others with inconvenient compassion. I want to become more like Jesus.

In a different translation, verse 2 reads, “Meekness and tenderness are the fabric of your make-up; this enables you to show compassion even in seemingly impossible situations, eagerly bearing with one another in an environment where love rules.” Wow! What a way to live. We can live this way and demonstrate the way God graciously treats us to others. We can respond to people with love, forgiveness, gentleness, and compassion. When you love others well, that’s how people will know you love Jesus. This culture is not good at loving those they disagree with, but Jesus is good at this. We can be good at it, also. In our day to day lives, it is important to remember how big of a blessing those we love are and treat them accordingly. I know when my perspective switches from, “I’m tired and had a long day,” to “It is a blessing to get to encourage my husband and serve him,” I am a better wife and I’m becoming more like Jesus. When God is your source and the one filling your cup, you will become happier and more able to pour out that abundance to others.

I encourage you to spend just 10 minutes alone with the Lord today, whatever that looks like for you, and ask Him who you can bless in your daily life. Let this be a new season of inconvenient compassion for others.

 Fall is my favorite time of year. A cool breeze, honey crisp apples, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, flannels, boots, scarves, beautiful leaves, and pumpkin spice flavored everything! This time of year, it seems like there are harvest-themed parties everywhere. There’s something about harvest season that everyone enjoys; it just resonates with us. I think part of the reason we all love fall so much is because God intended for us to live in a harvest season. He wants his children to be blessed with plenty. But in order to reap a harvest, you must first sow seeds.

So how do we live a life that is consistently sowing more seeds and in turn reaping more harvest? The Bible gives us an example of this kind of harvest in 1 Kings 17:10-16.

In this Bible passage, we read about how the Lord told Elijah to go to Zarephath and there a widow would provide him with food. When Elijah got there, the widow told him that she does not have any bread for him. She has only a handful of flour and a little bit of oil, which she was going to use to make one last meal for her and her child. Elijah explained to her that the Lord had spoken for her to give/sow what she had left to him, and that the flour and oil will not be used up until the day the Lord sends rain on the land. Despite physical evidence to the contrary, the widow did not keep the food to herself. She had faith in God and prepared bread for Elijah. Because she gave, she reaped a harvest. Read what the Bible says happened when she used the last of her resources to bless Elijah:

“So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah.”

Extravagant giving is how you have an extravagant harvest. The world encourages you to be stingy and selfish with what you have, and to use your resources for your own benefit. You may have some success that way – you will get to keep what you don’t share. However, what you have will never multiply that way. In order to reap a bountiful harvest, you need faith and generosity. Only when you give into God’s Kingdom will your offering multiply.

Now I understand we no longer live in a world where we can give our last bit of flour and oil away. Most of us are fortunate enough to have adequate access to food. But there are other practical ways you can sow good seed. You can give away clothes, school supplies, etc. to those who need it and may not be able to afford it. You can pay for someone’s coffee. You can offer to pick up your friend and drive them to church. You can donate your time and volunteer at a shelter, school or serve at church, etc. God is the same God today as he was back then, and His promises about giving still stand.

The Bible says in Luke 6:38:

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Have you ever made a recipe that calls for brown sugar? The instructions always say to pack the brown sugar into the measuring cup. What does that do? It makes room for more. That is what the Lord is saying will be given to you when you give. He will take the “container” you gave with and give it back to you, but this time He will pack it down and shake it so that He can return to you even more blessing than you gave. When you get it back, it will be overflowing. The Lord never returns something to you the way you gave it, he multiples it!

I’ve found that the key to extravagant giving is taking your focus off the harvest and placing it onto the giving. When we are others focused, we are blessed. The more seed you sow, the more harvest you reap. Who is your influencer going to be? The world? Yourself? God? Your way and the world’s way will only get you so far. No harvest can amount to the harvest you will reap with the Kingdom of Heaven backing you. What better way to stand out in this world than to be a giver.

I also want to mention, this “harvest” we are talking about is not just tangible items; this also applies to emotional and mental health as well. Peace, security, purpose, and strength are harvested from a life lived for Jesus. When you live a biblical life and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the enemy has no room to swoop in and steal your resources, attention and love.

This fall, try to think about how you can bless others. Who can you share your delicious pumpkin cookies with? Who can you take apple picking with you? Who can you buy a pumpkin spice latte for? Who can you invite to the harvest party at church? You are blessed when you bless others and God promises an even greater harvest than the seeds you sowed.

What are scars? According to Google, a scar is a mark left on the skin after a wound or injury has healed. These scars typically fade over time. But physical scars aren’t the scars I want to talk to you about. I want to talk about the scars that no one sees, that are healed over from internal wounds. We have all experienced emotional pain in our lives which has left a ‘wound.’ There are two things that can happen to wounds: they can grow and become infected, or they can heal and leave a scar. Others may not know that scar is there, but you do. What we do with our wounds is important and has the potential to change the world for the better if dealt with properly. I want to use my personal testimony as an example of the two ways wounds can affect your life.   

In college, I got into a relationship with a boy who was very popular. Most of the girls in my dorm wanted to date him. He was very charming, had a great smile, he was fun, had an outgoing personality, and was nice to look at. When I found out that he had an interest in me, I was very excited.  About two months into the relationship, once I was certain he was the most amazing man in the world, he became subtly condescending and controlling. One jab at a time, I started to lose confidence in myself and question if I really knew who I was. Eventually, his words led me to a place where I didn’t even know if I could make decisions for myself. He had me doubting my faith, who I was, my purpose, and my worth. He was very charming in public and very mean in private. Flash forward to two long years later, with the Lord’s help, I had the courage to end the relationship.   

Despite being out of the relationship, I was completely broken inside. There was a massive wound left in my heart. Remember when I said there are two things that can happen to wounds? Well, the first thing that happened to my wound is that it grew and got infected. It grew because I pushed away the feelings and thoughts of unworthiness, and moved on with my life, pretending that I didn’t have a wound. I ignored the pain instead of dealing with it. Here’s the problem with that – wounds need treatment and cannot be ignored. Since I didn’t seek proper treatment, the wound festered.    

When you let a wound grow and become infected, you start to project your pain onto others. Since I was wounded, I “bled” on everyone around me. I jumped from relationship to relationship hoping the next guy would ‘fix’ me and heal my internal wound. Not only did I not get healing from those relationships, I also hurt myself more as each relationship ended. It grew the wound because that was another failed relationship that reinforced the thought that I was unworthy. I also hurt those men in the process because I was setting expectations for them that they could never meet. No human has the capability to heal you. During this time, I was also unable to fulfill God’s purpose for me because I was so focused on pretending I wasn’t wounded.  

However, there’s a second thing that can happen to wounds – they heal. After about three years of letting this wound grow and become more infected, I decided to seek the only one who can heal me – Jesus. I acknowledged that I had a wound to be healed and I sought help from the Lord, and also from people I trusted. I found out that when I shared about my wound with others, they didn’t respond with judgment like I was concerned they would. They responded with love and helped me seek the treatment for my wound that I desperately needed. I allowed the Lord to speak into my heart and life and restore my mindset on my divine worth in him alone. The healing didn’t happen overnight. It took time. But the wound eventually healed, leaving a scar. We tend to associate scars with being unattractive, but I want to challenge you to think the opposite. Scars are beautiful, and I will illustrate why.  

In Jeremiah 18:3-4 we read, “So I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was working at his wheel. And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter’s hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do.”   

The Lord does the same thing with us – he makes all things new and beautiful (Ecclesiastes 3:11). He reworks us into a masterpiece even more beautiful than before the injury took place. The Japanese have an art form to represent this concept. It is called kintsukuroi, which means “to repair with gold.” It is the art of repairing pottery with gold lacquer. The Japanese believe and understand that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken and repaired than it would have been originally. How amazing is that? We don’t need to be ashamed of our scars, whether they be physical or emotional. Those scars make us more beautiful. Let’s not forget the most beautiful scars of all – the ones on our Lord and Savior, Jesus. Those scars are our victory. We get to spend eternity in the presence of our all-loving Father because of the wounds that Jesus suffered and then conquered.   

During the process of healing, I received comfort from God and from others who God worked with to help me. The beautiful thing about healing is when you are on the other side of it, you know how to help others heal from what you did. I now have a unique ability to help others who may be struggling with an unhealthy relationship or struggling with self-worth. Because I’ve received comfort from the Lord in this area, I can give that same comfort to others. Since my healing, it has become a passion of mine to help young people recognize their unchanging worth in God. Healed people help to heal others. Your scars can help to heal others in a way mine cannot and vice versa. The Lord is so kind and will put people in our paths who need the exact comfort we have once received and now have to give.  

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we and comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. 

2 Corinthians 1:3-4   

I challenge you to make the scary choice and allow God and those you trust into the pain with you so that you can heal. I spent three long and painful years trying to heal in ways that won’t work. Jesus is the one and only healer. He didn’t cause your wounds, but oh does he want to heal them and make you stronger, healthier and more beautiful than ever before. Your life and your story matter. You can be the one to help save someone else. Use your scars to tell the story of our Lord, Redeemer, Savior, Healer and Comforter. 

“I am thankful for the scars 

‘Cause without them I wouldn’t know your heart 

And I know they’ll always tell of who you are 

So forever I am thankful for the scars” 

Scars by I Am They 

I believe that the reason more people aren’t serving in the church, in their school, in their workplace or in their community is because a lot of us see ourselves as insignificant when it comes to changing the world. We think in order to change the world, we need to have some impressive, special gift that no one else has and display it for the whole world to see. We think we need to lead all of the teams and be certain of our spiritual gift and know how to use it perfectly. All of these things are incredible and will help to change the world. But that is daunting! It’s a lot of pressure. When I was younger, I remember thinking sure, I can serve on a team at church, but I don’t know what my spiritual gifts are or how to use them; I can’t do what I see others doing and make the impact they are making. That is lie. A lot of us feel that to serve, we need to be perfect and it needs to be a big production. But Jesus served the one just by simply being Himself.

While serving at church is important and discovering your spiritual gifts and using them is also important, I believe the largest impacts can come from the smallest moments. Changing the world starts with changing one person’s day. That one person’s day could end up changing another person’s week. That person’s week could change another person’s year or life, and so on. The world needs Jesus. And Jesus lives inside of you, which means the world needs you. It’s really quite simple: be Jesus to others. He wants you to shine among them so they come to know Him. And every single one of you can make a difference. We show the heart of Jesus when we support others, encourage others, and strengthen others.

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:10

Think about a time you were having a bad day, but somehow that day turned around. How did it make that turn? Did someone unexpectedly smile at you? Did someone compliment you? Did someone give you a hug? Maybe someone wrote you a kind note or brought you a cup of coffee. Even though that act was so very simple, it turned your day around didn’t it? Supporting others in such ways is a simple but powerful way to serve others.

We may think our smile to our classmate doesn’t matter. What we don’t see is that the simple smile reminded that classmate they are seen and not alone. We think when we pick up a piece of trash and throw it away, no one sees. What you don’t see is that the housekeeper was so fed up with picking up trash that people drop, and one more piece of paper on the ground was going to set them over the edge, but you prevented that.

When we say an encouraging word to someone, bake cookies for our coworkers, call that friend to check in, go above and beyond at work, we are showing God’s love to others. And you may think that’s just being kind. But a lot of people in this world today are unkind. And when you are kind to someone, especially someone who isn’t very kind themselves, they notice. They notice that you are a giver instead of a taker. And that opens up conversation for you to share Jesus with them.

People watch you constantly and take note of how you act as a Christian. We can leverage this as an opportunity to serve and edify others by setting a good example for them. We can keep a good attitude and react with kindness and love toward others, especially when things aren’t going our way. As children of God, we have divine power to live by the Truth instead of our emotions. When we do that, we represent God’s Kingdom well and set a good standard for the rest of the world. This is also an act of service, as we are strengthening others through the example we set.

“The truth is, if you will regularly reach out to help people, edify them, encourage them, and treat them the way you want to be treated, then you will be one of the happiest people in the world today.” Joyce Meyer

When you serve and encourage others, you yourself become more joyful. We were created to give because we were created in His image. The Bible tells us in Matthew 20:28, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” It is in our nature as God’s children to serve. We receive more from giving than receiving. Most people today think that happiness comes from having the most money, possessions, popularity, etc. Let’s show the world where true and sustainable happiness comes from. Serve others by simply loving them the way Jesus loves.

 There is a well-known saying, “Everyone knows you can’t choose your family, but you can choose your friends.” This statement is often used to take a jab at our families, but we don’t often think about the latter part of the statement. The truth is that we do get to choose our friends, and that choice can be your biggest blessing or your greatest heartache. Our friends, especially those in our close circle, have a lot of influence in our lives.

Good friendships are life-giving, supportive, and encouraging. Good friends always point you to Jesus and provide unconditional love. They can help you through the toughest of times and celebrate with you through the best of times. We need good friends in our lives; God never intended for us to do life alone. As it says in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

But what happens when we don’t have good friends? There may be times you choose a good friend, but that friend changes over time, causing a once good friendship to become an unhealthy one. There may be times you feel that you can help someone, so you choose to be friends with him or her, despite poor life choices made by this person. There may be times you choose a friend based on a social status you want to have rather than the person’s character.

Whatever the case may be, we can all find ourselves in friendships that bring stress and pain into our lives. And while we are called to be Jesus to people and love the hurting, we are not called to have these people in our close circle or give them influence in our lives. Jesus walked in the world but was not of the world. The Bible warns us in

1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” You can be walking a straight path with the Lord, but the more you walk with the wrong crowd, the more likely you are to act like them, get hurt by them, or be weighed down by a one-sided friendship.

When I was in high school, I felt a lot of pressure to fit in. When I would try to be friends with the kids in my classes, they would make fun of me for not participating in a lot of things they considered normal. Their actions and words were not honoring God, and they thought I was “lame” for not joining in. Even though I knew I was being obedient to God by not participating in those actions, their rejection still hurt. I eventually found a small group of friends who I believed to be good friends. However, no one is perfect, and I was once again hurt when I found out that a couple of them were calling me names behind my back to fit in with the “popular” kids. Whether we want to admit it or not, our friends’ words and actions can hurt us deeply. Leanna Crawford describes this in her song “Mean Girls”:

Not only does Leanna relate to the hurt caused by words, she also names the cure to that pain: God. The only true way to heal from wounds created by others is through the love of God. He is our Healer and can speak life into our broken places if we allow Him. What the Lord says about us is what defines us. He says we are created with a purpose, have the mind of Christ, are more than conquerors, are righteous in His sight, clothed in strength and dignity, and loved beyond our comprehension. This truth is what sets us free from the hurt caused by others and allows us to walk in freedom with the confidence needed to choose good friends.

A good biblical representation of friendship is the one shared between Jonathan and David. Jonathan and David met while Jonathan’s dad Saul was the king of Israel. The Bible describes their loving, selfless friendship in 1 Samuel 18:1-5:

“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his family. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt.”

       Later in their friendship, Jonathan helped David escape death even though doing so meant he would no longer see David, and he could potentially jeopardize his father-son relationship. Then, after Jonathan’s death, David sat Mephibosheth (Jonathan’s son) at his own royal table, when he easily could have eradicated the former king’s (Saul) family line as revenge. David and Jonathan consistently put the other above himself and reflected the love of the Father to each other. This is the kind of friendship the Lord wants for you.

No matter what you’ve been through or are currently going through, the Lord wants to provide you with good friends. While breaking off negative friendships can be painful and maybe even lonely in the short-term, it will be worth it in the long-term. When I ended those friendships all those years ago, I couldn’t even imagine how many blessings would come from my new friendships. If you will trust Him and let go of unhealthy relationships, He will provide you with life-giving relationships that will reflect the Lord’s love for you. The company you keep matters – choose good friends and be a good friend to others.

Speak His Words Over Yourself

People try to have faith...in friends, family, doctors, lawyers and so many others.  The truth is that the only one who will never fail you is God.  His Word is always true.  Have faith in God!  Believe His Word!  Speak that Word over yourself continually and allow the power of His Word to build you up, settle you down, comfort you, heal you, and bring you peace that goes beyond all understanding. 

Speak Faith!

 There are many “voices” speaking into our lives on a daily basis. Which voices are you listening to? Better yet, whose voice are you listening to?

As a believer nearing the end of my young adult years, my heart is to help the next generation filter these many voices through a Heavenly lens. I have been a youth small group leader for the past three years and am well acquainted with the struggle’s young adults face in this generation. Having recently walked through that season, I am able to relate to this age group while also offering wisdom about how to handle some of these situations. I believe if our youth gains a full understanding of who they are in Christ, what they have access to through the Holy Spirit, and what God can do through them, that they will be such a bright light in this dark world and lead many souls’ home to Jesus.

1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

Our youth and young adults are up against many voices competing for their attention: social media, news media, fashion industry, school, friends, parents, coworkers, television, movies, politics, music, video games, etc. These voices sound like comparison, achievement, anxiety, unworthiness, exhaustion, and temporary pleasure. However, they also have a higher voice speaking to them; Their Heavenly Father is always present, seeking to commune with them. His voice sounds like love, truth, light, hope, peace, and encouragement.

Colossians 3:1-2 says, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

How do we set our hearts on things above amidst the constant noise of the world? How do we filter voices through a Heavenly lens? How do we stay encouraged through all the negativity of this world? How do we walk confidently in the steps God has ordained for us when the culture we live in brutally opposes everything the Bible stands for? That is what I hope to unpack through these articles.

Young minds are moldable. Young minds are curious. Young minds are passionate. Young minds are brilliant. Young minds will bring this next generation home to Jesus and advance His Kingdom. But young minds are up against a myriad of distracting voices competing for their attention and hearts. They are constantly having to choose whose voice they are going to allow to influence their decisions. So, my question is who’s your influencer?

I hope you’ll take this journey with me as we unpack how to live in this world but not be of this world. As Jesus tells us in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”