2 Timothy 1:7 tells us that God did not give us a spirit of fear or timidity, but of power, love, and a sound mind (NLT). So, if God has instructed us to not fear, then why do we? Perhaps, it’s within our biological nature, maybe we’ve been taught it, or we’ve been put in one too many situations where fear was the only thing we could feel. Nonetheless, when you faith, you’re not supposed to fear. I’ll be honest and say I’ve had both…at the same time. While I was afraid of what I was going through and the problems that I was experiencing, I also had hope and faith in God that He would see me through (and He did). Ultimately, I had to make a decision between the two, to see which one would prevail. However, in the end, faith wins!

When you receive a knock at the door and faith and fear are there, which will you let in?

La’Rue

I was watching an inspirational word some days ago, and it helped me to determine a feeling I’d had for quite some time, but couldn’t explain or make sense of. I was rejoicing because I was no longer in distress, depressed, or going through the heavy battle I did two years ago, yet I wasn’t where I knew God promised me I’d be. It turns out, I am in the middle of it; not where I was, but not where I will be. Even though it can be frustrating at times, being in the middle is not always a bad thing. Besides, a lot of good things has happened in the middle. Jesus parted the red sea in the middle, to help the Israelites escape the Egyptians. Jesus was nailed in the middle of His palms when He died on the cross for our sins. When you’ve been between a rock and hard place, God has been in the middle to help you make the right decision. When you’ve been in a storm, God has always been in the middle of it to see you out unharmed. The lady with the issue of blood was in the middle of the crowd and when she touched Jesus’ hem, He healed her. When you’ve been in the middle of trouble, has God not seen you out? So, don’t be afraid because you might currently be in the middle your exodus, or the wilderness and promise land. Remember, good things can happen in the middle.

La’Rue

Last week was one of the busiest weeks I’ve had in a long time and in the process of me making sure that everything was in order and everyone was taken care of, I neglected myself. I found myself going to bed past midnight most nights, not getting enough sleep, having groggy mornings, missing meals, not being consistent with my notes, and literally running on E (empty). I went to a regularly scheduled doctor’s visit, and it turned into me getting the next day off. Truthfully speaking, I needed it, because I was beyond tired, plus I took a nasty fall about 2 weeks ago, and I’ve still been recuperating from that.

Although I fell down, it wasn’t enough to keep me down. Like always, I got back up and hit the ground running, when I should’ve been laying down…literally! Nonetheless, I’m re-learning to make time for myself and take better care of myself, because no matter what needs to get done or who needs help, if I’m not physically and mentally sound, I’m of no use to them or myself. Whether it’s taking 30-minutes to rest your “sole,” or being selfish by only taking care of you, do it. Always remember, even in your absence, you can (and will) be replaced.

Take care,

La’Rue

Yesterday, during one of my many talks with momma, I told her how the things I’ve longed prayed for are coming to pass. I’ve always been a huge encourager and have loved and embraced this position wholeheartedly. One of my dreams is to attend a women’s conference or symposium of sort, where I got the opportunity to testify about God, and call others to Him, all the while using my trials and tribulations to empower and help women to overcome their own.

As God would have it, I’m doing just that. On April 29, 2023, I will be one of (8) speakers of a panel consisting of all women, in my home state of Alabama, at a Women’s Empowerment Conference. Talk about a blessing and promise of God that’s about to be fulfilled! Being grateful is putting it mildly. I’m overjoyed, blessed, and thankful that God is continuously making due on His promises, and He’s empowered me to empower others.

I knew early on this year would work in my favor, because I declared to God it was HIS year and not mine. When you give to God the cares, concerns, and worries of your heart, He’ll in turn give you your heart’s desire!

La’Rue

Last week, I had the pleasure of flying to Texas for a work-related event. I was so excited to finally visit the state I’ve felt God has called me to move to (just not yet). Nonetheless, as I went through the TSA preliminaries and boarded my plane, I was all too happy to be seated near the window, which is my favorite place to be. Unbeknownst to me, right before take-off, I experienced one of the worst anxiety attacks I’ve ever had. I felt the plane was swallowing me up and I had nowhere to run. I asked the gentleman on the aisle seat to change with me, but he declined. I then advised one of the flight attendants of my situation, and she frantically sought me another seat. Luckily, a man who was sitting in an aisle seat 6 rows up from me agreed to change seats.

I felt a lot better, immediately, but about an hour later, the anxiety continued. “What on earth is happening to me?” I questioned, because I’ve flown countless of times and have never experienced that before. Needless to say, I was happy when we landed as I couldn’t wait to get off the plane. During my few days stay, I really enjoyed myself and the area I stayed in, although God has plans for me to stay elsewhere. After I fulfilled my work assignment and prepared to fly back out, I became increasingly worried I was going to have another attack. I’m still not sure what prompted the first one, but I was not prepared for what took place during my flight’s departure. Once boarded and an hour into the flight, I felt my breath leaving me and the plane encapsulating me. I was seated yet again by the window, but this time, I couldn’t escape.

All I could do was pray my way through the entire ordeal and try to remain as calm as possible. As I quietly cried for it to be over, God begin to speak to me. “What you are experiencing is growth, and you’ve outgrown the place in which I have placed you. Now has come the time for you to move up.” I thought to myself, “Not now, God. I’m in survival mode at this moment. Can we talk about this once I land?” However, there was no need for a conversation, because God had made it perfectly clear to me. I’ve outgrown the former things and I’m now entering into my promised season. Everything He does for me will only propel me forward and I will no longer be held back. This is my Ephesians 3:20 season!

I still can’t explain why I had those two anxiety attacks on the plane, or why God would use them to get me to see what He’s about to do next. Besides, all He could’ve done was just tell me, and not scare me. Although if I’m honest, when I think of the big plans He has for me, I do get a bit scared. However, I know if He brings me to it, He’ll bring me through it.

Maybe you’ve come to a place in your life where you’ve outgrown people, your job, certain relationships, or other things. Whichever the case, always consult with God and ask Him “What’s next?” or more importantly, “Prepare me for what’s to come.” Don’t let complacency or money be the reason you remain in a situation or environment that God has outgrown you.

La’Rue