"Christian Crunch Over Brunch"
Hey y'all! I know it’s been awhile but I've got myself together (well just enough to write this lol) and I wanted to share really quickly about the ministry brunch/Christmas party I attended this past Saturday. I say "ministry" and no official name because we don’t have one. Our group started one Sunday afternoon as we decided to have brunch after church. During this gathering we talked for hours about things that are most pressing in any group of young single Christian women… celibacy, dating, career, relationships, purpose, and much more. We decided quickly that this gathering was just the first of many and that we should get together once a month, for sisterhood, encouragement, and fellowship. During this time we also started a mini “book club” with our first three books being “Your Knight and Shining Armor: Discovering your Lifelong Love” by P.B. Wilson, “The Esther Anointing” and Deborah Anointing by Michelle McClain (I highly recommend you look up and read all 3!). So back to Saturday! My friend planned a beautiful brunch at her home to commemorate the end of the year and the Christmas holiday. We were all asked to bring a spiritual gift for a gift exchange at the end of the gathering. Before the exchange we feasted on a spread of chicken and waffles bites, home fries, sausage, bacon, eggs, cooked apples, fruit, orange juice, and coffee (yummmm it was so good y'all). Anyways, after eating we gathered around to dive into some discussion questions regarding the year. During our discussion 3 things stuck out to me:
- Purpose- a common theme in the room was women looking and praying for their purpose. Everyone knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that they were created for a purpose but just unsure of what it is or what steps to take in order to see it manifested. I wonder if you’ve ever felt the same or perhaps you feel that way now. Comment below about what you think your purpose is and steps you’re taking or want to take in order to go in that direction.
- Spiritual Compass- A concept that was introduced by one of the girls, in which north is where you get your inspiration, your spiritual guidance, and where you are poured into (pastor, parents, spiritual mother/father, and mentors). East and west is your accountability partners, those people that encourage you, fast with you, and who also admonish you from time to time when needed. Lastly, south is the people you inspire and pour into, those who you take time to encourage, teach, and guide along their spiritual journey. What does your spiritual compass look like? Do you have all of the components of the compass?
- Biggest battle faced throughout the year: Almost every women faced a big battle (from death, unhealthy relationships, and change, to sexual assault) that they only overcame through their relationship with Jesus Christ. They attributed their ability to overcome to constant prayer, fasting, scripture reading, and sheer intentionality in their relationship with God. What was the biggest battle you faced this year, and how did you overcome it?
The afternoon ended with one last discussion questions, which was to finish this sentence: “When I think of what God has in store for me in 2017, I feel…” When it came around to me the one word that came to mind as my heart began to race, was “overwhelmed”. When I think about the direction I think God may be leading me in, I become terrified! I know God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. This truth does not make my fear any less real (just keeping it real!). After this discussion we wrapped up the brunch, exchanging gifts and goodbyes. I left feeling refreshed and so full of love and encouragement. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling of fear and uncertainty as I thought about my future.
When driving home I wasn’t paying attention, just praying and letting the GPS guide me… But the volume was down! I instantly became nervous (I am directional challenged) because things did not look familiar and I thought I was going the wrong way. It turned out that I ended up right where I needed to be. I believe God spoke to me in that moment and made me realize how this moment is similar to my life. If I just allow Him to lead me, I’ll end up right where I need to be, despite how afraid I may become, if I just keep going, just keep praying, He’ll lead me and I’ll reach the destination. He spoke to my heart, that whichever road I take, He’ll lead me to His desired end.
I was compelled to share this revelation with anyone who may be struggling with God’s plan for their lives, those who are scared to death, questioning their every move and whether or not they are in the will of God. Lean in and pay attention… as a daughter of the King, He will direct your path. His word says “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you”. (Psalm 32:8) No matter if you make a wrong turn or your surroundings look unfamiliar, He has the power to put you right back on track! He watches over you meaning He knows exactly where you are and what you need.
Stay Encouraged!
Love,
allthingsjesus