Outnumbered

There are seasons of our life where we feel overwhelmed by our circumstances. We keep adding things to our “to do” list, and nothing is getting done. We have more bills than income. Everyone has their hand out, and it all seems like too much. We can’t seem to find any time for self care because everyone is pulling. We are outnumbered by our titles. We are outnumbered by our tasks. We are outnumbered by our sense of defeat. We can’t seem to find our way out. This is when we cry out. This is when we ask for help. This is when we find ourselves alone. There is help. There is hope. You are not alone.

Matthew 11:28-29  (KJV)  Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

Outgrown

Kids outgrow shoes and clothes faster than you can buy them. People outgrow relationships. People outgrow circumstances. People outgrow things. It can be hard to navigate when you outgrow people you hold dear. It’s not like someone has hurt you or wronged you, but you are in a different place, a different mindset. If you remain, you will stunt your own growth. Unfortunately for those who have not matured, they might not see it that way, and that’s okay. You can always choose to love and support from afar. Don’t let people and relationships hinder you from where you know you belong. Accept that you’ve outgrown that relationship, but you still love the person. You are making a conscious decision to put you first.

Merry

We only hear words like joy and merry once a year around Christmas time when companies are trying to drive sales into the black. We never hear a nationwide push for joy and happiness or splendor any other time of year. We do not promote cheer year round. Why? Why don’t we have Merry Monday’s or Happy Friday’s? Why don’t we wake up excited to be alive another day? Why do we only have joy once a year? There is something to be celebrated today. There is someone who needs to know they are loved and appreciated today. Happy Friday. Be Merry!

Memories

 “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.”- Dr. Seuss

We take so much for granted. Time with children and loved ones is fleeting. We can’t stop time. We have to live in the moment before they become memories. We have to cherish every kiss, every hug because we just never know when we won’t get that opportunity again. I’m not saying live in fear. I am saying live in love. Love each other. Understand the value of friendships and relationships. Make memories that will last.

Members Only

We love being apart of something exclusive. We love feeling like we are getting something that someone else is not getting. We love feeling important. Membership is about belonging, but it’s also about identity. Every member must add value to the organization. They all have a role to play. These roles work together to ensure that the membership is functioning properly.

The body of Christ functions in the same way. Each part of the body works together for the benefit of the whole. It’s a “ members only”club that grants acceptance to those who believe. There are benefits to membership and each of us add value to the kingdom.  Are you a member?

Be Content

Philippians 4:11-13(NIV) I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Verse 13 is a very popular scripture. It is often one that is recited and committed to memory. However, the verses that preceded it give context. The key to contentment is through God. Only God can give peace in hunger and need. Only God can give peace in plenty. Only God can give contentment. If you find yourself struggling in any of these areas, I challenge you to be content. Just maybe the more you're seeking is going to cost you more than you can afford to pay. More may cost you time, money, and peace. Be content. 

Casualties

There will always be casualties. Unintentional hurt and damage caused by unforeseen and known circumstances. It is unavoidable.  Collateral damage is a part of the game. Translation: You can't make everyone happy. Everyone will not support your decisions. Everyone will not get it. People will disagree, and you will have to pick up the pieces and keep it moving. It's not personal.