Life can and will sho nuff break you down. Disappointments, insecurities, demons, discrimination, finances, heartbreaks, failures, death, etc. It can all be too much to handle and overwhelming. No matter the age, race, or class, everyone experiences inequities and challenges. And even though we are aware that everyone experiences these things, we often feel like we are the only person in the world going through a particular situation. It can be a lonely emotional journey. That’s why it’s important to keep your spirit and mental health strong and stable at all times. This is something I’ve come to realize as I have been going through my own personal challenge. I NEED to constantly be surrounded with affirming thoughts about who God says I am. I created a prayer wall in my bedroom since I don’t have a walk-in closet. It works just the same. On my wall I have prayers for me and others, scriptures, affirming power thoughts and cards of encouragement and inspiration. It’s a tremendous help as this visual wall keeps me in check. I go to it whenever I need to be reassured. I encourage everyone to create one. I pray and meditate in front of the wall daily. It really does help me keep my spirit strong and anchored in the strength and love of the Lord.
The recent suicide deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain as well as bereavement a couple of my friends are experiencing brought me to my wall with a desire and asking of God how I could be of more service and comfort to others. Starting Black Girl Affirmed is one of the ways I wanted to be an instrument in His kingdom to help empower, encourage, and edify one of God’s most valuable creations, the Black Woman.
I prayed and invited the Holy Spirit to dwell within me so I can be a comfort and an encourager to others, and that words flow easily from my heart to my mouth when I speak and write. God kept placing these words over and over in my heart: Grace, Mercy, Hope & Faith and Love. It immediately spoke comfort to my situation and I knew I needed to share because it could do the same for you. These nouns can cover you through every situation. The Bible says that God’s grace is sufficient and his power is made perfect in our weakness. That means we can count on it whenever we need it. It’s free and given to us daily without cause. Coupled with mercy it covers every mistake, failure, disappointment, everything you might think no one would understand, judge you for, or forgive you for. Grace is unmerited favor despite it all and mercy is the deliverance from it all. Faith and hope keep you moving past those things holding you back and gives you the motivation to arise every morning with purpose. God places vision over your life and it’s your faith and hope that propels you forward to keep moving during and after your crisis. Despite current circumstances and obstacles, faith and hope in God and yourself are your most powerful motivators. All of this is surrounded and package in God’s love. Being encased in God’s love is like being sheltered in a protective cocoon. Nothing can break it. It’s comforting to know that someone loves the imperfect you. That unconditional assurance is everything and with its full backing, you can be certain that anything is possible. I am also extremely blessed to be surrounded by the love of others. I am beyond grateful to God for the people God has placed in my life. They support and encourage me like no other. Their love helps move me forward as well. Reach out and lean onto those closest to you when you need it. You don’t have to carry all of your burdens alone. God places people in our lives so we can comfort and help one another.
These things aren’t tangible but they can have a profound impact on your life and change its trajectory. It can be the difference between life and death. Above all that I want for you, I pray that you will always be surrounded by God’s Grace, Mercy, Hope & Faith & Love. It will keep you thriving.
Affirmed Thoughts
God loves me. With His love I will always press toward the mark despite challenges and obstacles. I will never lose faith in Him nor me.
Amen! What a great word… thank you for allowing God to use you!! Continue to serve Him!