Choose the Strength


In the wise words of my therapist…

“You decide the strength that comes from your struggle.”


In the past year, I’ll admit… I’ve felt like I have hit rock bottom three times now. I’ve learned that some days are harder than others but… making the decision to not give up on the dreams God has placed on my heart is a step in the right direction. Making the decision to get out of bed every morning and choose joy is a step in the right direction. Making the decision to not take the sunrises, sunsets, and every little thing in between for granted is a step in the right direction. Choosing to show up to where HE has called me to be is a step in the right direction. Learning to choose Grace with not only others but also myself is a step in the right direction. Being quick to forgive and laying the hurt down at the Cross is a step in the right direction.


Everyone’s “step in the right direction(s)” is different. But if there is one thing I can leave you with today, it’s that… you get to choose to take those “steps in the right direction” my friend. Only YOU can decide the strength that comes from your struggle.


God gives you a choice every single day; you can wake up and hold onto the struggle and make your life miserable because of it. OR, you can choose to pray for and find the strength to be better. It’s a choice, my dear. You GET to decide.


As always, I will be the first to admit… I have made the choice to pick up the struggle more often than I have made the choice to pick up the strength. It’s easy to pick up what feels normal. It’s easy to pick up what you always have. But, tonight I want you to drop the shame, and the guilt, and the struggle at the feet of the cross. You were never meant to carry that, so choose to pick up the strength and don't let go of it.


I know it’s a hard choice, but if you decide every single day to pick up the strength, first thing in the morning, It will pay off. Maybe with time, but the Lord will show you exactly what His good plan is for you!


Drop that struggle off with God, He’s got this. It’s everyone’s first time living. Don’t be afraid to mess up, just choose to do the right thing, not the easy thing. Don't fall into the ways of this world.


You are so very loved.