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These past few weeks have been weeks of intense transition. As much as I know that I have experienced previously in life, these past several months are unrivaled regarding the intensity or even longevity of the spiritual warfare that I have been embroiled in.
It is helpful, when enduring challenging times, to be able to recall previous challenges and subsequent victories. Having said that, I’ve learned that it is equally important to remember how close I came to giving up – and what my internal dialogue was that enticed me to do so. I am a firm believer that unless we have been pushed and challenged to the point that we question, even briefly all that we have been taught or experienced regarding the Lord’s faithfulness to His people – we have not truly been tested. It is not until we reach that place of sheer discomfort and crushing that true brokeness is manifested.
During such times of crushing, it is vitally important that we have hidden the Word of God in our hearts. It is also extremely helpful to have several affirmations or quotes that resonate within us with which we can encourage ourselves. I’m going to share several quotes in this article which I have found to be a source of strength and encouragement.
Often, the challenges that we are confronted with in life are a direct result of a position that we have assumed when faced with two opposing views. It is not unusual for someone who has fully embraced their core values, and has a very developed moral compass to find themselves with dwindling support even from those previously considered staunch supporters. It is even possible as the stakes become higher, that those that have in the past given you wonderful, integrity laced advice, begin to encourage you to compromise. I have found that maintaining reasonable expectations regarding our “supporters” and where there limits truly are, is helpful when dealing with the fire of opposition. It is vitally important that our ultimate confidence is placed in the Lord. His voice must be the loudest voice in our ear.
Here is another quote which I have found particularly helpful:
Several years ago, while in prayer, the Lord impressed upon my heart this truth: “There is a difference between making a decision and being decisive.” Technically, a “decision” is made within one’s own mind. Being “decisive” involves moving forward with sure, supporting action. True decisiveness involves the elimination of options. When we are able to move forward decisively, and resolutely and maintain that momentum no matter the obstacle, then the tenacity that Amelia Earhart referred to in the quote referenced above becomes evident.
Another quote that I have personally found to be empowering, because it is just so very insightful, is this quote by Dr. Martin Luther King:
This quote makes it abundantly clear the far reaching negative impact of being committed to a course of action or and ideal despite evidence being presented to the contrary that the position being defended is detrimental.
One of my favorite quotes is by Maya Angelou; it captures beautifully, my sentiments regarding navigating life, and the mindset with which I choose to do so:
“ My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”
– Maya Angelou
Life certainly presents us with an ongoing series of twists and turns. There are times when we may manage the ebb and flow of life more skillfully and with more poise than at other times. Throughout the twists and turns , if we are able to hold ourselves accountable for navigating authentically, without dishonoring our God or our Legacy we cannot help but to increase our resilience and therefore our freedom.
It is my prayer that this article encourages you to continue to press forward, because you realize that there is greatness in you. The world needs what you have to offer. Go forth!!
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Releasing Fire,
Apostle Cheryle L. Richardson