OVERCOME

For the past several years, I have entered the year with a single word and scripture where I focus, set my intentions or goals for the year. Sometimes those goals are professionally related (finish a project, write the book), and at other times, it’s more personal (rest, read, or relax more). Most of the time, God surprises me with new and unexpected things. For example, in 2016, my word was “Greatness.” God spoke clearly and vividly through a dream as I entered that year. There is much more to this story, but the short of it is: when I got to the end of the year, I was dreaming bigger. One thing that I have always wanted to do was visit the continent of Africa. By the spring of 2017, I was in discussions about visiting the continent, not once, but twice that year! (I can’t wait to go back!) This year was a lot different than the previous ones. December 2018 found me wrapping up the “A Sojourner’s Truth” book tour, and I was tired. Then I hosted friends and family, including a lot of sick kids…which made us sick, for much of the Christmas holiday. So, I did not enter this year rested, reflective, or intentional. The year just came, and I just was. I had this nagging feeling (lie) that I was behind. But I entered into the year with the purpose to celebrate anyway, because I was turning 40 years old, after all. We did practice the discipline of celebration. I did get some days away to pray, rest, and be present, quiet, and still with the Lord. During that time of reflection, this is the word that kept coming to mind. This word was the continuous call that God gave to the seven churches in the province of Asia (Revelations 3:7-13). There are eternal rewards for those who overcome. So, I decided to move forward this year with an “in spite of…” and “…but God” attitude. God is with me.

It is hard to believe that we are almost half way through the year! Have you thought about any words, messages, prompting, goals, or dreams that God has given you this year. What have you done with them?

Take some time to reflect on God’s word and purpose for you this week. What do you need to remember? Where do you need to write down, commit to, or adjust?

God is faithful to do exactly what he said. God is with you. Therefore, you will overcome.    

Blessings, Natasha