Strength From The Stillness

In moments of trial and uncertainty, silence can be our greatest strength.  When Jesus stood before Herod, He chose silence over defense, knowing that true power doesn’t always need words. 

His stillness wasn’t weakness—it was a demonstration of profound trust in God’s plan.  Christ lived in perfect peace, and offers peace to each of us too. 

Psalm 46:10 invites us into that same stillness: “Be still and know that I am God.”  It is in our quiet moments that we connect with him.   By cutting through the noise and distractions of life, we create space to truly experience God’s presence.

Take a moment today to pause, breathe, and embrace the quiet.  Let the stillness remind you that you’re not alone, and that there’s a higher power guiding your path. 

Through silence, we find clarity; through stillness, we find strength.  Allow yourself to be comforted and consumed in the calm, and let God’s Spirit refresh your soul.

Be Still.
Be Blessed!

Trust And Live

There is so much to unpack in these four lines. These four lines could easily be turned into a monster discussion, writing or podcast.

Today though, think about your dreams, your story and how what has happened to you has lined up to put you on the path you are walking.

Trust that the things that have happened to you have happened so you can use them for your good and to also help you to help others.

As you reflect on your dreams and your story you can then live your life on purpose and with a purpose.

You have been given a sphere of influence that is directly related to your dreams and your story.

You are where you are right now for a reason doing what you are doing with the people who need you to do it.  Be faithful to that.

I’m Cheering For You.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can reflecting on past experiences and understanding their impact on your journey help you find a sense of purpose and direction in life?

2.  In what ways can recognizing your unique story and sphere of influence inspire you to make a positive impact on those around you?

Ephesians 2:10 ESV‬

[10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. 

Remember that you are not here by chance. You are God’s handiwork, crafted with care and intention.  

Ephesians 2:10 is an encouraging reminder that you were created in Christ Jesus to do good works that God has prepared in advance.  

This truth means that your story, your dreams, and your unique path are part of a greater plan.

Each experience you’ve had, every challenge you’ve faced, is a piece of a puzzle that God is piecing together. 

Don’t underestimate the impact of your journey.  Your life has purpose and meaning. You were designed to be a light in the world, to bring hope, and to make a difference. 

Embrace your God-given gifts and talents.  Let your faith guide you as you step into the works that God has prepared for you. 

Be bold, be courageous, and trust that He is leading you in the right direction.  Keep walking in His purpose, knowing that you are exactly where you need to be to fulfill His divine plan.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue 

1.  How can the understanding that we are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” change the way you view your own value and purpose in life?

2.  What are some practical steps you can take to discover and fulfill the “good works” that God has prepared for you in advance?

Reach Into the Ditch

Life has a way of pushing some to the edges, like forgotten cars rusting on a side road.  It’s easy to overlook those who once shone brightly but have since slipped into shadows.

When Elton John rediscovered Leon Russell, he saw more than just a musical icon—he saw a soul in need of revival.

Elton’s call to collaborate wasn’t just about making music; it was about reaching into that metaphorical ditch and offering a hand. 

When Leon Russell was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he said, “Elton came and pulled me out of the ditch of life.”  This simple act of reaching out brought him back into the spotlight, giving him new life and purpose.

It’s a powerful reminder that we all have the potential to be that hand for someone else.  As Christ followers, we’re called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those who are in their own ditches of life.

Whether it’s a word of encouragement, an act of service, or simply a listening ear, we have the power to bring light to someone’s darkness.

Take a moment to think about someone who might be feeling forgotten or overlooked.  Your act of kindness could be the very thing that helps them find their way back. 

Elton did a good deed.  That’s nice, and that’s where it can start.  But as a relationship grows you can offer them something more. 

Offer them Jesus too and a real life of change, not just out of the ditch, but on the freeway to a better and more meaningful journey.

Be the one who pulls someone out of the ditch, and maybe more—just like Jesus has done for you and me.

Be Blessed! 
Bless Others!

Kobe

Kobe Bryant, the late NBA legend, famously talked about the “Mamba Mentality,” a relentless commitment to excellence.

He didn’t just dream of being a great basketball player; he defined exactly who he wanted to be. Kobe’s vision was clear: he wanted to be the best, and that required unwavering dedication.

Instead of just wishing for greatness, he put in the hours, getting up at 4 AM for grueling training sessions.  He didn’t let setbacks deter him, whether it was injuries or missed game-winning shots.

Kobe’s approach was simple: work harder and smarter than anyone else.  His commitment to his goals inspired a generation of athletes.

He proved that to become the person you want to be, you must act with purpose and consistency.  It’s not enough to visualize success; you must build it through focused action and a refusal to give up.

His life and career serve as a testament to the power of defining who you want to be and then doing whatever it takes to make it a reality.

Your challenge:
Over the next seven days, commit to a small, specific, and measurable goal that aligns with the person you want to become.

Whether it’s waking up 30 minutes earlier to exercise, dedicating time to learn something new, or focusing on a daily act of kindness, stick to it without excuses.

Track your progress each day and reflect on how your actions are moving you closer to your goal.

At the end of the week, assess what you accomplished, how it felt, and whether you’re becoming the person you aspire to be.

Consistency is key. If you meet your goal for a week, you’ve made a step toward lasting change.

Share your results with someone who can keep you accountable, and keep pushing forward.  Contact me if I can help you.

You got this! 

I’m cheering for you.

Dreams In Action

One of the saddest phrases we can ever say is “what if?”.  We can become paralyzed by a fear of trying something because of the unknown but that is no way to live.

As mentioned last week, one of the biggest dreams in my head 25 years ago was coaching college basketball. 

After a fantastic two year experience I felt my calling and place to be was back at the high school level. 

The good thing was I didn’t have to say “what if?”.  I’m grateful for that. 

Trust your abilities, your instincts and lean on those around you that can be of support to you as you pursue your dream.  I am grateful for my family for constantly joining me in pursuing my dreams. 

Your dream, in fact, may also help someone around you believe that they can accomplish their dream too. 

The first step toward your dream has to be your first step.  Have faith, be brave and dream.  Then go to work.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  What dreams or aspirations do you have that you’ve been hesitant to pursue, and how can you overcome the fear of the unknown to take the first step towards them?
 
2.  Who in your life can you lean on for support and encouragement as you work towards achieving your dreams, and how can you reciprocate that support for others in their pursuits?

Do Not Fear

Many times, pursuing your dreams can seem daunting.  The path ahead might be unclear, and fear can make it seem impossible to take that first step.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

This scripture is a profound reminder that even when we’re facing uncertainty, God is always with us, ready to support and guide us on our journey.

Think about your dreams and goals.  Maybe you’re holding back because you’re unsure of the outcome or afraid of failure.  The truth is, you don’t have to face these fears alone.

God promises to strengthen and help you.  His presence means that no matter what challenges arise, you have a constant source of support and encouragement.

As you pursue your dreams, keep Isaiah 41:10 in your heart.  Remember that God’s righteous right hand is there to uphold you, providing you with the strength and courage to take bold steps toward your goals. 

Trust in His promise, and know that you can overcome any obstacle with His guidance.  Don’t be afraid to dream big and take risks.

The journey might be challenging, but with God by your side, there’s nothing you can’t achieve.  Trust Him, move forward, and embrace the adventure that comes with pursuing your dreams.

You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you let go of fear and rely on God’s unfailing support.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  What dreams or aspirations have you been hesitant to pursue due to fear or uncertainty, and how can you apply the promise of Isaiah 41:10 to overcome these fears?

2.  How does knowing that God is with you, strengthening and upholding you, influence your approach to achieving your dreams? In what ways can this assurance encourage you to take bold steps towards your goals?