A Letter To Me

The most important conversation that you have every day is with yourself.  You can’t lead others unless you lead yourself first. 

If you need a little help with that, and let’s be honest, we all do.  Take a moment to read this letter to yourself.  Repeat as needed.
—–
Dear Me,

Just a quick reminder:

You matter.  In the chaos of life, don’t forget your worth.  Your actions, your thoughts, they all leave a mark.

Challenges may come, but remember your strength.  Embrace flaws; they’re part of you.

Past victories prove your resilience.
You’re not alone; ask for help.

Dreams? They’re worth pursuing.
Take care—physically, mentally.

Uncertainty’s okay; it’s where you grow.
Your journey, your story, are unique.

Believe, trust, and always remember:
You matter.

Stay awesome,
You
—–
I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can embracing your flaws and recognizing your past victories contribute to a stronger sense of self-worth and resilience?

2.  In what ways can the practice of self-affirmation, as suggested in the letter, enhance your ability to lead others effectively?

A Letter To Me From Psalm 27:1

Dear Me,

Remember Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”

In times of doubt, picture the Lord as a mighty fortress, unshakeable and steadfast.  He is your light, guiding you through darkness, and His salvation assures you that you are never alone.

Draw strength from His presence.  When fear creeps in, remind yourself of this verse.  Let it be your shield and your confidence.  The Lord is with you, He is for you, and He is your protector.

Stay strong, keep your faith, and trust in His unwavering support.  You’ve faced storms before and emerged stronger.  With Him by your side, you’ll continue to rise above whatever comes your way.

Believe in yourself and in His power.  You are not alone.  You are deeply loved by the Creator of heaven and earth, and He knows your name. 

With strength and hope,

You

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1. How can reflecting on Psalm 27:1 help you overcome fear and uncertainty in your daily life?

2. In what ways can you actively draw strength from your faith, especially during challenging times?

Joyful Heart, Abundant Feast

In our daily journey challenges and hardships are inevitable, but Proverbs 15:15 offers a profound truth for the Christ follower:   “All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.”

This verse reminds us that while trials may come, a heart anchored in joy and gratitude transforms our perspective, and can help us to be content.

As believers, our joy isn’t rooted in circumstances but in the unchanging love and grace of God.

Embrace a cheerful heart, for it is a wellspring of life, turning each day into a celebration of God’s goodness.

Let gratitude and faith fill your heart, creating a continual feast of peace, hope, and joy.  No matter the trials, trust in God’s promises, and let your heart overflow with the joy that comes from His everlasting presence.

From everlasting to everlasting.  Trust in the eternal God.  That’s a true feast.

Be Blessed!

Lessons From Defeat

Winning is special.  Winning is fun, but you can’t truly appreciate the winning without some defeats.  

Life is going to have you feeling defeated at times, so here are five suggestions to help you handle the defeats that may come your way. 

1.  Check your perspective.  Are you focused on feeling defeated or the things that are going well?  Find some positives. 

2.  What are you learning?  Look past the defeat.  How are you getting better?  How are you getting stronger?  

3.  You don’t have to like defeat, but sometimes you have to accept it.  Defeat has happened, but what’s next?  What’s next is what matters now.

4.  You will survive.  You will live to see and to fight another day.  Compete.  Competitors find a way to win. 

5.  Don’t give up; don’t ever give up!” – Jim Valvano

Many people have come through defeats in their life, and you will too.  

I’m cheering for you. 

Finish

Embrace the spirit of perseverance and determination.

In 1968 Tanzanian John Akhwari competed in the Olympic marathon.  He cramped up early in the race, fell and dislocated his knee, injured his shoulder and suffered severe cuts.  In spite of that, he finished. 

John Akhwari’s words resonate deeply: ‘My country sent me 5,000 miles to finish the race, not start the race.’

Life’s journey is like a marathon, and success comes to those who stay committed till the end.  When you feel the weight of challenges, remember why you started and who’s counting on you.

It’s not about simply beginning; it’s about crossing the finish line despite the odds. Each step you take, no matter how difficult, brings you closer to victory.

Your dreams, goals, and aspirations deserve the dedication to see them through.  So, dig deep, find that extra burst of energy, and keep going.

You have the strength within you to finish strong and make your journey worthwhile.
Finish.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can the John Akhwari story inspire you to persevere through your own personal and professional challenges?

2.  In what ways can reflecting on the reasons we started a journey help you stay committed and motivated to reach the finish line?

Keep The Faith

Embrace the spirit of perseverance and strength, just as Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

As followers of Christ, we face various trials and challenges.  Yet, in these moments, our strength is found in Him.

Paul’s words remind us that enduring faith and resilience are essential to our spiritual journey. The obstacles may seem overwhelming, but remember that our strength comes from Christ.

Reflect on why you began this journey of faith and who you are living for.  Each step, no matter how difficult, is a testament to your commitment and belief.

Dig deep, keep the faith, and find that inner strength to remain steadfast.  Your journey, grounded in Christ, is worthwhile.

Finish strong, knowing that your perseverance is a powerful witness to the enduring love and strength found in Him and Him alone.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can Paul’s example of fighting the good fight and keeping the faith encourage you to remain strong and resilient in your own spiritual journey?

2.  In what practical ways can you draw upon your faith in Christ to overcome obstacles and challenges in your daily life?

One Person Can Make A Difference

Do you believe that you are a difference maker?

Do you believe that you could help the people that you are around every day?

Your family?
Your friends?
Your workplace?
The person you pass in the grocery store aisle?
The waiter at the restaurant?

You’re just one person but you have an opportunity to make a difference every day with many different people.

Some you know well and spend countless hours with.
Some you are around for a few minutes or hours during the day.
Some you have a one time opportunity or moment to make a difference.

You don’t have to be perfect with the opportunities that come your way but it is important that you try to make a difference in the world around you.

If we all try to do that the ripple effect of the results could be amazing but it starts with you and me.  I’m willing.  How about you?

I believe you are a difference maker too.

I’m cheering for you.