The Power of Trust – Part 1

PHOTO CREDIT: PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERIN YAMAGATA; MODELED BY VICTORIA GOMEZ

What words will you trust in 2019? Almost daily, your ears are exposed to opinions on how you should behave and voices spewing a plethora of deluded advice.   On virtually every social media platform, there are discussions regarding politics, spirituality, finances, sexuality and many other issues of life. Most commentaries attempt to appeal to your senses and influence your lifestyle choices. Although you can swipe to find 12 signs for This or 7 steps to That, they rarely fit your exact situation or provide a positive resolution. 

And yet you trust in lies that will only hurt you. 
Jeremiah 7:8 (Common English Bible)

You can get lost in the chatter.  Misinformation fuels insecurities and amplifies anxieties.  In the midst of discord and confusion, you may experience intense personal emotions.  A distressed mental state can cause your discernment to become clouded and sound decisions to wane.  Despite your desire for tranquility and joy, you find yourself disgruntled on the opposite end of the spectrum.

Lord of heavenly forces, those who trust in you are truly happy!
Psalms 84:12 (Common English Bible)

You do have a trustworthy source for enlightenment.  Your Heavenly Father is the ultimate success coach and life strategist. He delights in helping you in every area – relationships, difficult times, business, dreams, health, purpose – you name it.  God loves you. He gently guides with personalized advice exclusive to you.  There are no hidden agendas, no deception, only knowledge that leads to your good success. You become stronger, carefree and full of energy! His enduring patience and wisdom will teach you about the power within you.   Even better, you can access His protection, resources and anything you need at any time and in any place. Tune in to His feed…no wi-fi needed. 

Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
don’t rely on your own intelligence.
Know him in all your paths, 
and he will keep your ways straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (Common English Bible)

This year is different.  Trust God.

Loving Again

black-couple-laughing-carrying-woman

Most people want to be loved.  Well, at least all those I have ever met.  Like me, they enjoyed receiving the extra adoration, special privileges, attention, forgiveness and light that being loved brings.  However, it is interesting to note how many of the same people do not want to give love.  They are unwilling to put in the work to heal, humble oneself and prepare for love.

I fell into this category.  Maybe you can relate. You are just too tired and disappointed from past hurt to try.  Bitterness begins to construct an impermeable wall to block the free flow of love in and out of your heart.  But at some point, you have to ask yourself if you want love in your life again (from another person other than your child or family).  Be honest.  Ask yourself, “Do I desire to experience reciprocal true love…tender, patient, powerful, kind, forgiving and faithful?” If you do, one of the first steps is to turn to God and humble yourself.

Don’t do anything for selfish purposes,
but with humility think of others as better than yourselves.
Instead of each person watching out for their own good,
watch out for what is better for others.
– Philippians 2:3-4 (Common English Bible)

Believe me; humility takes a lot of work!  It requires letting go of pain and trusting God with all aspects of your new relationship.  You have to endure the healing process. It requires you to be vulnerable and relinquish control. It also involves a new set of eyes…seeing others and yourself from a new perspective.  And to be clear, humility of oneself does not mean settling for just anyone.  You should expect the best! Thankfully, God’s word can help you with this transformation and provide the strength you will need.  Although there may be some tears, loving again is worth the effort!

…And everyone, clothe yourselves with humility toward each other.
God stands against the proud, but he gives favor to the humble.
– 1 Peter 5: 5 (Common English Bible)

Meet Your Power Coach

A namtag sticker with the words Hello I Am Your Coach to represe

Searching for the perfect life coach or business mentor for 2018?  Ready to turn big dreams into reality?
Well, look no further.  Allow me to introduce your new power coach

…your Heavenly Father! 
You can experience the sweet success and undeniable results that come only from a proven leader.  He is a Creator, a Provider and a Finisher.  He is the ultimate game changer for your life!

The steps of a [good and righteous] man
are directed and established by the Lord,
And He delights in his way [and blesses his path].
– Psalm 37:23 (Amplified Bible)

Equip yourself with a power coach that can help you navigate through the well-meaning recommendations of friends, family and internet advisors.  He can steer you away from dead-end paths void of fulfillment as well as, paths that cannot accommodate all your inner talents and secret desires.  He can equip you with boldness over fear and confidence over uncertainty.   Anything is possible with Him!  He can open doors and create new partnerships that no one else can.  And unlike other coaches, He can provide refuge and restoration from unexpected catastrophes that derail even the best-laid plans.  Above all, God is not a procrastinator, money-waster or promise-breaker.

Delight thyself also in the Lord:
and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
– Psalm 37:4

Your Heavenly Father knows all about you, so experience more of Him in 2018.  Trust and allow Him to call the shots in every area of your life.  The best part is when God is directing you; He empowers you with wisdom, favor and supernatural abilities!  He will guide, inspire, and bless you beyond measure!

This year, get to know your power coach and elevate your life to a new level of delight!

Stress-Free Power

 

Power_Up_Logo_v7

Photo Credit – Awana.org

What gets you pumped up and ready for each day? Are you invigorated by your favorite cup of joe, the early morning show or a good cardio workout?  Maybe your daily routine begins with quiet time or meditation.  If you are looking to relieve stress and take your morning routine up a notch, invite God to power up with you!

Here are a few benefits of powering up with God for a stress-free day:

Maintain patience and peace – Any first-thing-in-the-morning crisis, nagging pain, grueling commute or a cantankerous start with kiddos can deplete patience reserves by 9am! There is still an entire day left.  Starting the day with God through prayer or reading His Word provides a supernatural peace to protect our sanity.

Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God,
and of Jesus our Lord,
– 2 Peter 1:2

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,
shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
– Philippians 4:7

Withstand Haters – All of us encounter those who do not like or support us. This negative opposition can drain our emotions.  In some cases, “haters” relentlessly attack our character, work and personal well-being.  They often outnumber us and attack without a cause.  Thankfully, God does not want us to be distracted from our joy or from going forward.  He gives us strength through His Word to remain peaceful and focused until “haters” no longer have an effect on our daily lives.

And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee;
for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee.
– Jeremiah 1:19

Eliminate anxiety and stress – Nothing in the world is for certain…relationships, economy, weather, national security. This uncertainty can fuel stress and lead to numerous health complications.  Without God, the weight of protecting our assets and constructing a future solely on self-effort is exhausting.  Some engage fortune tellers, idols, rituals or even drugs just to ease the burden.  Worrying about life destroys hope, debilitates faith and hinders the power of God in our lives. 

Therefore, don’t worry and say, ‘What are we going to eat?’ or ‘What are we going to drink?’ or ‘What are we going to wear?’ Gentiles long for all these things.
Your heavenly Father knows that you need them.

Instead, desire first and foremost God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.

– Matthew 6:31-33 (Common English Bible)

Praise God! With your Heavenly Father, there is certainty of success!  All things that have happened and will happen in the future work together for your good.  You may not always understand how God works, but you can be sure that His power does work!  Communicate with Him through prayer, praise or worship.  Invite Him to lead your path each day and power up in His amazing presence!

Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits,
even the God of our salvation. Selah.
– Psalm 68:19

 

Your Power Season

change-of-season

Do you ever feel like giving up and throwing in the towel?  Has a whirlwind of emotions convinced you to abandon your dreams, a marriage, God or even your own life? Before you make any decisions, let’s take a moment to breathe and refresh.

Every person experiences an undesirable season in life – grief, depression, frustration, shame, loss, addiction or an unexpected tragedy.  If left unattended, these seasons can steal your joy, harden your heart and leave you barren of faith. However, with the power of God, they can also provide opportunities for supernatural victory!

If you are ready for a season change, here are some tools that may help you…

Keep your heart towards God
Seasons of life test spiritual maturity.  You can strengthen your faith by focusing on the promises of God written in His Word. This can be extremely difficult to do while experiencing the disappointments and distractions of life.  But doing so will empower you to break free from hopelessness.  His Word gives inspiration for the future. God loves you. Talk to Him about your pain and allow Him to replace it with a joy and peace that only He can provide.  In the midst of a winter, God will prepare you for your spring.

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.
He brought me up also out of an horrible pit,
out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.
And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God:
many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1-3

Be patient and believe
Tribulation is temporary. Your present circumstance is not your final season. Continue building intimacy with God in prayer. Believe God has taken care of all your adversaries and infirmities. Take refuge and find comfort in Him. Take time to rest and quiet your spirit. The manifestation of your destiny is worth waiting for. Your words, actions and reactions may seem justified, but find out what God has for you. This knowledge is imperative for strength and endurance in any season.

Never apply a permanent solution to a temporary problem –
Make decisions based on purpose instead of on the pressures of life
Dr. Myles Munroe

Look ahead and dream BIG
Even in darkness, envision yourself in a new season!  Believe the best for your life! Creating a dream board is a great way to visualize your future success.  Avoid rehearsing past regrets and reliving painful events.  Forgive others and forgive yourself to maintain clear vision.  Bitterness impairs your ability to see ahead.  The Word of God will encourage you and build up your dreams.  It is a constant reminder that your future is greater than anything you have already experienced!

Brothers and sisters, I myself don’t think I’ve reached it,
but I do this one thing:
I forget about the things behind me
and reach out for the things ahead of me.
– Philippians 3:13 (Common English Bible)

Do not give up!
Friend, God has a purpose for your life.  He needs you to continue on the journey with Him.  Keep going towards God.  He will reveal your destiny and bring it to pass. With Him, you will overcome the impossible.  No person, present situation or past mistake can stop you from your power season!

And let us not be weary in well doing:
for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. – Galatians 6:9

You are a Superpower!

You are a SuperpowerAre you ready to change your life for the better?  Now is the time for joy, victory, abundance and strength to be visible in your life! It is now time to thrive!  No matter your situation, there is good news.  You already have super powers inside of you! Even better, no force in the universe is greater than the power you possess!

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,
and over all the power of the enemy:
and nothing shall by any means hurt you. – Luke 10:19

Whatever villain tries to rise up against you – lack, strife, depression, doubt, sickness, pain, anxiety, condemnation, shame – you have the power to defeat it!  Seek and speak the Word of God over your situation.  Use your authority to command change instead of complain!

“______________ (villain), I do not accept you in my life and command you to leave right now, in the name of Jesus!
I am the righteousness of God and I am redeemed from destruction!”
(1 Corinthians 1:30, Psalm 136:24)

God knew you would need extra help in this world.  And don’t worry now, if you feel a little weak…

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might
he increaseth strength. – Isaiah 40:29

Remember, your power source is the anointing of God through His Son, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.  He has even given you authority over angels.  Healing, love, power, victory, peace, wealth, a blessed life – God transferred it all to you!

So how can you access this power?

Seek God first.  Trust and obey your Heavenly Father.  Pray for patience and believe all is well.  Love and walk in peace with everyone whenever possible.  Forgive.  Resist the devil.  Use your authority for good.

Yes, this is real!  God loves you!  It is time to unleash your supernatural superpowers!

Power Choices

Power ChoicesAre you overloaded with information?
Do you live in uncertainty that your life choices are the right ones?  Have you ever felt overwhelmed when it is time to make a decision? Often, feelings of anxiety surface because we try to make important life choices all on our own.  There are so many options to consider… who to trust, where to go, what to believe, which cause to support, when to start or what to do next?  Thankfully, God gives us advice on what to choose.

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you,
that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing:
therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: – Deuteronomy 30:19

In other words, whatever is presented to you as a “choice” in your personal daily life, mindset or business that brings life, peace and blessings – CONTINUE and GO FOR IT!  Choices that contradict the life God promises in His Word or situations that bring pain, confusion and death – RELEASE and DO NOT CHOOSE.

Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways. – Proverbs 3:31

It can be difficult to choose life if the opinions of the world have more influence over you than the Word of God.  Making choices based on spiritual revelation is a humbling process because they are not always popular, supported or understood by others.  Sometimes the decision may not even agree with your own flesh.  Your mind tells you one thing, while your spirit leads you in an entirely new direction.  When you find yourself going back and forth, reasoning or making excuses to justify a decision – ask God for guidance.  He does not want you to choose anything out of fear, anger or desperation. Draw close to Him regardless of the circumstance.  You are His beloved and He honors your free will.  

God desires for you to thrive and live a long, victorious life!  The more you fellowship with Him, the easier it will be to choose the life and blessings he has especially for you.  Today you can begin making decisions with more confidence and power than ever before.  Friend, know that choosing life will always result in good success!

What Can God’s Power Do For You?

Image by God Can Worldwide Store

Photo Credit: GOD CAN Worldwide Store

Not a day goes by that I don’t need God’s power in some area of my life.
If you find yourself in need of power, remember God can do anything.  All you have to do is trust Him.  He promises to always be with you to overcome every obstacle.

And they shall fight against thee;
but they shall not prevail against thee;
for I am with thee, saith the Lord,
to deliver thee. – Jeremiah 1:19

Sometimes, in the midst of life trials, you and I can forget our “all-access” status with God.   It is during these times that He wants all our cares, battles and frustrations to be given to Him.  He wants us to ask for His help.  God’s power is magnificent, intense and boundless!  He can do all things!

Allow me to share what God’s power can do

strengthen you in times of weakness, anxiety and fear

shield and vindicate you against wickedness, slander, deception and corruption

infuse joy, love, peace and purpose into your life

heal you from sickness, addictions, abuse, molestation and a broken heart

restore and renew you from divorce, betrayal, loss, rejection and financial hardship

deliver you from feelings of inadequacy, depression, low self- esteem and rejection

bless and make you fruitful in every endeavor

transform your life out of darkness, condemnation and despair

generously provide grace and mercy

open doors, promote you and give you favor to live successfully

anoint you to love others even in the most difficult situations

…and the list is endless.

 You are His beloved!  Whatever you need, seek Him and He will show you His power.  God can.  He is ready to do for you!

Who is in need of Power?

Anyone who is doing something they cannot do in their own strength needs power to go beyond, to have victory or to make history.   For some, power is needed to move forward from loss, devastation or betrayal.  Others need power to achieve success for new responsibilities and greater opportunities.  People often search for power from many different sources hoping to create a life they always dreamed.    However, God is the ultimate source of power that already dwells inside of you.  The key is to seek Him so that you can tap into the wisdom, love and power of the Creator.  God’s power overcomes evil, torment, curses, lack, bondage, depression, fear and condemnation.  This year make God and His power a priority in your life.   There is only victory to gain!

Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. – 1 John 4:4