Sometimes things just don’t go right as far as we’re concerned… or so it seems. Plans fail, progress is thwarted, results are glacial in coming. It’s easy to feel defeated in circumstances like that. In thinking about my own situation and conversations I’ve had with my husband, my mom, and others close to me, I’ve realized one thing: the phrase “be encouraged” is a directive. It’s not an indicator that everything is ok; instead, it’s a spur to actually receive the encouragement that comes to you. I know for me, it’s far too easy to rationalize my defeated mentality sometimes. When others try to uplift me, I shoot down their words of hope and positivity with ”but…” and “well what if” to, in a strange way, justify and hold my ground in determination to be miserable. We have to learn to let the negativity go—it’s a derailment tactic of the enemy—and allow ourselves to embrace the silver linings and glimmers of hope in every situation.
I spent most of my life in school pursuing an education that would equip me to achieve my dreams. But when grad school was over, I was rather surprised and quite disappointed that things didn’t immediately take off as I blazed my entrepreneurial trail. It sounds silly now, but my expectations were totally obliterated in that first year after finishing school. I was nowhere near where I thought I’d be. It seemed like all my dreams and visions of success were countless miles ahead, but I was stuck where I was, spinning wheels in the mud. I can’t tell you how many times I questioned God, wondering if I was doing the right thing, if I had missed something, or if He had just forgotten about me. Friends, family members and mentors tried to encourage me telling me these things take time and starting a business always requires more time laying the foundation before results are realized. I wouldn’t hear it. Looking back now, some 3 years later, spending this time laying the foundation has ensured that what we build will be strong enough to not only stand, but thrive.
There’s so much to learn in this time. I’m learning about myself, I’m learning my craft, I’m learning how Anthony and I can best work together to make our dreams come to fruition. I must be ever-learning and keep an open mind to let understanding grow and influence my approach. As we continue to lay the foundation, we’ll soon reach the tipping point where our hard work on our dreams will pay off. And I don’t have to worry about it being “too late” by the time I get where I’m going – as long as I’m praying about what to do and where to go with every step – because what God has for me is for me.
When Daniel was in service to the King of Persia, he had a vision of threatening events in the kingdom’s future. He waited for an answer to his prayer for understanding, but it seemed to be a long time coming. Finally an angel came to him and reminded him, “’Don’t be afraid,’ he said, ‘for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!’” (Daniel 10:19, NLT) Like Daniel, our answer is coming. Our breakthrough is coming. We just have to wait patiently for it and remember God is always working on our behalf behind the scenes because He loves us.
We too are precious to God. He has great plans designed just for us, and he promises to work everything out (Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28).
What area of your life can you choose to be encouraged in today?
Victoria says
May 9, 2016 at 12:33 pmCongratulations on the new blog! I am so proud and encouraged all in one after reading this post about faith! I pray that you and Tony will continue to be a great, Godly example to so many other young people, married couples, and men and women individually. Quote of the day: “And I don’t have to worry about it being ‘too late’ by the time I get where I’m going – as long as I’m praying about what to do and where to go with every step – because what God has for me is for me.”
Kendall says
May 9, 2016 at 3:46 pmThank you!!! I can’t even tell you how much your support means! <3
Lenq says
May 9, 2016 at 1:31 pmThanks for this timely word of encouragement! I needed it.
Kendall says
May 9, 2016 at 3:46 pmAwww yay! Thank YOU! So glad you enjoyed it! <3
Daniel P. says
May 9, 2016 at 3:34 pmThat was an excellent sentiment in kicking off your website. It’s very encouraging to see a couple wanting establish their business with God as the foundation.
Kendall says
May 9, 2016 at 3:47 pmThanks, buddy! We definitely appreciate your support!
Jason Refsnider says
May 9, 2016 at 4:22 pmThis was on time word in my current season of life. I definitely understand the hard work to venture out on something and hope God is telling you to do it every step of the way. Keep moving forward with whatever he has laid on your heart. It’s better to walk to your beat instead of everyone else’s beat. Again this is what I needed to get myself back on track. Love both you guys.
Anthony says
May 17, 2016 at 6:21 pmGlad we could be a help in your very present situation now bro. Thanks for your support! Love you too man. Keep moving forward in God. I know that he has big plans for your future! More than what you can see.