Keep moving forward.

Often we hear these words and some lack the ability to apply it when life throws its curve balls. Here in the Barbados, we would say, “watch where you’re going before you fall down”. This statement was often used when a child wasn’t looking in the direction that they were walking. Something could’ve distracted them or maybe they just didn’t want to go in the direction they were being led. And then there’s me, hey, with another heart check.

I found myself spiraling emotionally and the Holy Spirit interrupted the world wind of thoughts and calmed my spirit, thank you Jesus. I was then able to regulate my emotions and choose how I wanted to move forward. I did this by: identifying the thought, understanding the feelings it brought, fact checking them (lining them up with Scripture) and allowing them to pass.

I was having a conversation about what happened this particular day and that lead to a series of revelations and the one I wanted to share is this.

I shared how I find that my issues stemmed from comparing my present season to a past one. Then it clicked Isaiah 43:18-19 was spoken over me in a birthday blessing and it starts by saying FORGET the former things, behold I do a new thing, do you not perceive it? In my analytical thinking I began to break this down and apply it to my situation and I said, if I’m so concerned with what is behind me I won’t be able to perceive what God is doing now. And truly my heart’s desire is not to miss a single thing my Father in heaven does. And so, I bowed my heart in humility and as I took a shower I poured out my heart to God. I asked Him to give me His perspective for this season of my life. And I repented for all the complaining and the murmuring I engaged in. I asked Him to help me to be more thankful and to give me a fresh anointing. Immediately I felt this newness, I knew He heard me, I felt more peaceful and this is what this journey is all about.

Understanding we won’t always get it right but we serve someone who can help us to get it right. He’s always waiting to help us get back on track. I could’ve wallowed in self- pity about how I messed up yet again and remain stuck. But I chose to trust God and keep moving forward. So where He is, I can always be. You may be feeling a bit like me or a lot. I want to encourage you with this, you too can choose to move forward. Accepting where you fell short and coming to God in humility is where it begins. His grace is sufficient. Your mistakes and mishaps can be viewed invitations for you to know Him more intimately.

I have a new favorite song and I’ve been meditating on the words I’ll leave them with you.

I can see, I can tell and I know it’s Your Grace.

All my days, I will sing Your praise.

Grace found me.

Grace saved me.

Grace made me who I am.

Grace redeemed me.

Grace sustains me.

Grace made me who I am.