Be Not Weary ... Victory is Coming!

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (Galatians 6:9 KJV)

Happy Super Saturday!

I know the Lord inspired me, once again, to encourage anyone who needs to know that despite your troubles, there's always victory waiting at the end of your tunnel. Believe me, I totally get about feeling left behind, even feeling forgotten while others are carrying on with their lives without a care. But I'm here to tell you that no one is exempt from problems. No one.

Just because someone's situation appears "fine" on the outside, it doesn't mean that the cup he or she is drinking from quenches his or her thirst. You'll be surprised what goes on behind closed doors, when no one is looking. You have every right to be frustrated, if you've been struggling for quite some time. You have every right to feel like you deserve some reward for making some effort in what you do. And this may be true.

But can I go deep about what's going on inside?

Do you feel like throwing in the towel?

Do you feel like escaping from reality?

Do you feel isolated? Afraid? Uncertain?

If so, you're not alone. Sometimes I ask myself, "Why does it seem like the bad guys are always winning?" or "Why is it every time I try to get somewhere in my life, here comes another tragedy?"

There are days when I feel like no one truly cares. There are times when I feel like drowning in my sorrow because of all the agony I've endured within the past year, but somehow, God is sustaining me through it all. I had a lovely prayer with God earlier today. Yes, you can believe I was shedding tears because I wasn't only praying for myself, but also for whom I love dearly.

In spite of the setbacks and disappointments, God managed to make my trials bearable. I love the fact that I can call on Him 24/7. I love the fact He doesn't snicker at me or belittle my feelings. I love the fact that He is available for anyone who calls on Him. He is compassionate to those who call on Him; for something appeals God about those who are in a bind and they feel there is no way out.

But what God reminded me throughout every circumstance I faced, He brought me through and out of them, and also, these situations are temporary—not permanent. I want to be clear, I'm not saying walk around like nothing happened, when you know deep down you're still hurting; for it's not healthy to be in denial. The first step to deliverance is acknowledging your problem is too much to bear.

When we come clean and we carry everything to God in prayer, there's always consolation in return, even when it doesn't seem like nothing is happening right now.

You can be rest assured in knowing that God has already worked it out for you. I pray this is lifting your soul. While I'm still in my dark phase of my life, God is doing something beautiful for me. I'm learning to turn my curses into blessings. Yes, with me losing my job appears to be a curse, but writing to you is my blessing. And if you relate to what I'm saying, I'm glad God's message is resonating with you and I want you to hang in there with me. I know it's difficult and recession is kicking the unemployed left-and-right. But it's also tough on the employed with making money for business.

Times are hard and there are hungry souls out there searching for something more meaningful. You have many out there, who believe all hope is gone because it seems like everything their hands touch turns into dirt.

Beloved, please know God sees and knows your circumstances. He understands and He cares. I know you feel like you're by yourself. But you're not alone. God will never leave you or forsake you. Jobs change. Seasons change. People change. You change. One thing is accurate: God doesn't change!

I love when I can call on Him in my times of distress. And you want to know why? Because when the good times arrive, I'll appreciate them better and treat others how I want to be treated and shower them with God's everlasting compassion. This world is dying in greed, narcissism, treachery, murder, and vanity. All the things God abhors because it ruins our spiritual being.

It really does. These reports we hear on the news bring devastation—not deliverance. The handwriting is on the wall that people are crying for help. They are seeking for something deeper. They want something to fill in their voids. And the only void-filler is Jesus and Jesus alone. In the Bible (read John 4), when people were trashing the Samaritan woman, at the well, because she had five husbands and she was an outcast, Jesus didn't think He was better than her and He didn't look at her track record with men. He did something better. He offered her a drink that would satisfy her forever and she would never thirst again to search for a love she'd been longing for, in what she thought she could find with her fifth husband.

When I pray to God there is a peace that passes all human understanding. There's comfort in knowing that no matter what happens to me, I can count on God. I call on Him whenever I need Him and He is there. And you want to know why? He's got all the love I need and more.

You see, God, in my past experiences, has proven Himself strong to me. And He's still doing it now. Even though it seems like everything is slipping from me, I know He's got me covered.

I love His policy that He will take care of me and He will do the same for you. There are times in our lives when we must learn and know when to pick-and-choose our battles. When our incidents are colossal, that's where God steps in. He knows how to turn travesty into triumph. It doesn't matter what the doctor says about your condition. It doesn't matter if you're losing your job, and it doesn't matter if you’re on the verge of losing your home. I'm telling you today, the God I serve will see you through. Your miracle is on the way and you will receive a breakthrough.

Keep walking in your dark tunnel. Yes, you're walking in your deathly valley, but God is with you. When others turn their backs on you and walk away from you, you best believe God is still with you. When no one sees your tears in the midnight hour, He hears you praying, even if you don't know how to pray. God is your Super Hero. Nobody can turn devastation into joy like God can. Nobody can soothe your doubts and calm your fears like God can. Nobody can give you songs of deliverance and rock-you-in-your-sleep like God can. And it's through Jesus' name, your impossible situations can be solved, because Jesus died for your sins and He wants you to know you don't have to go through it alone anymore.

When people say, "No." God says, "Yes."

When evil seems to trample over your happiness, God will give you joy in your time of sorrow.

When you've been abandoned and mocked, God have been with you the entire time, and it didn't surprise Him that your so-called friends and family have forsaken you. God is your friend. His Love is pure and He won't let you fall when you're hanging at the end of your proverbial cliff.

God is calling you today to surrender your current situation right now. He desires for you to hand it over to Him, for nobody can solve your problems like He can. God wants you to let go and leave your burdens there in His Mighty Hands. He has all power that no other false god can provide. He can hold off the rain, if you ask Him to and He'll do it. He did it for me!

I never forgot when I didn't have an umbrella with me and I was sitting in my cousin's car and I remember her words clearly after I said, "I wish God could hold off the rain for us."

Her snide comment, "Now, Chimere, God doesn't hold the rain for you and me, we're nobody. We're not that special for Him to do it."

Yes, she doesn’t serve the same God like I do, even though our grandmother, may she rest-in-peace, serve the same God I believe in. But I had a triumphant smile on my face to prove her erroneous statement wrong. So, I held my peace and my mind went back to the story of Elijah when God said He wouldn't let it rain. And God didn't let it rain for three years because wicked Ahab (see 1 Kings 16-18) did evil before Him, and it didn't please Him, and plus, Ahab worshiped a false idol named Baal. Ahab was convinced that Elijah's God couldn't do what Baal could do. God wanted to prove that He is the only God who has the final say with everything we face in our lives. There was a severe famine in Samaria and God sent Elijah back for the third year to tell Ahab that it will rain, and God allowed it to rain.

So, I quietly prayed to the Lord that He would hold off the rain until my cousin and I come back from running errands. And as soon as I prayed, God, indeed, stopped the rain and to my cousin's dismay, she was condemned. This is proof right here that God does answer prayers. I know He heard my cry for the past year—and I know He will bring me out. It doesn't matter how terrified I am, but deep down, I still trust Him, even if I don't understand His plan right now.

Oh, my wonderful friends, you must know God is coming to your rescue. He will meet your needs and He will see you through. Please know there is nothing too hard for God. I have a personal relationship with God to tell you this. I know Him for myself and I didn't went by what others told me about Him. My testimonies are here to show you how real He is to me, so you can try Him for yourself. God deals with everyone differently and this is a beautiful thing. He will make your bitter moments better. He will work out what the devil mean for evil and use it for your good.

Trusting God is hard because we only see what's in front of us. Hey, we're mortal, but God is immortal. Is there anything too hard for God? No.

In the midst of my trials, I'm learning to give thanks in every situation because I could be far worse. By God's mercy and grace, He's keeping me. But if you haven't been spared by your situation, know there is hope in your strange land. Victory is coming!

That's right you're reading this correctly. Your victory is just around the corner. God is waiting on you to open the door after He performs the miracle. He wants you to believe with all your heart that the impossible is possible. Give God a try today and I promise you, you will come out a winner!

But if you're facing severe trouble and you can't see your way out, I'm here to pray for you. May this prayer console you and give you hope for a better tomorrow:

Father, with all the troubles I'm facing, it seems like I can't catch a break. I need You to move on my behalf, for I'm afraid and I don't know what tomorrow brings. Lord, I'm releasing all my fears to You right now, in Jesus' name, because I have no one else to turn to. Save me from my troubles! I'm calling on You to provide a way for my loved ones and me. We need hope, real hope that You are sending help our way. Lord, I thank You for performing my miracles in advance and I thank You for answering my prayers. I decree it by faith it is done. Let Your will be done in my life. In Jesus' Name, I pray Amen.

If you believe with your whole heart that God is moving on your behalf, your miracle is here. And if you're still afraid, know that I believe in God for you; and I touch and agree with you that God has already fought your battles for you. Remember: you're already victorious! So, don’t give up don't give in! Your destiny is waiting for you. And if God be for you, who can be against you? Be still and know that He is God. (See Psalms 46:10.)

Only For a Season: God Will Take Care of You

For his (God's) anger endureth but a moment; in his (God's) favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. (Psalms 30:5 KJV)

Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

"Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow thrown in the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little of faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Luke 12:22-34 NIV)

Happy Fantastic Friday!

It's a beautiful day and I'm glad to be alive. It's a blessing to be in the land of the living. God inspired me to write this post today, for many reasons. I won't lie to you; worry comes with the territory of being human. It's a natural response when things are beyond your control. But I want to assure you today that, yes, God will take care of you, no matter how bleak your situation may seem.

Back in Summer 2006, I was worried and frankly, I was behind rent and I was on the verge of being evicted. I was living in a Single Room Occupancy (SRO), at the time, and everything "seemed" dark for me. But while I was in my secret closet with God, He directed me to Luke 12:22-34. He wanted me to grasp something valuable from this message. He wanted me to absorb what the scriptures were saying to me. And I did absorb the message, in a way, that led me to a new level of trust in Him. And sure enough, God did bring me out of my situation in December 2006. I'm learning each day that God is definitely in control, no matter how out-of-control my situation may seem.

Hey, maybe you are facing a similar situation or worse. But I come to tell you today, God knows all about you and He's very much in your business, my dear friend. Know that God will take care of you. Yes, there are some things we can handle within our human limits, but there are some things we need to leave to God and God alone. Easier said than done, right? Right.

I'm learning that when I learn to trust in God, He makes all the scattered pieces come together even when I can only see my present. I'm so glad God sees a promising future for me than I can, because He is God. And there is none like Him. People tell you all these quick fixes that appeal your eyes temporarily, but when the cracks get wider, these worldly suggestions doesn't work anymore. You need something more sustaining for your soul that will get you through the tough times. True Christianity is not popular in these modern times, but I can say for myself, as a living witness for God: His Ways always work. Always.

There are no shortcuts in Him. His Ways are higher than our ways and He knows what works best for us. If we want to know what God wants us to do next, so we can get out of the current rut we're in, this is where Proverbs 3:5,6 comes in. The first step in drawing closer to God is acknowledging this problem is bigger than you and you need His solution.

Next, total surrender. It's okay if we don't have-it-together all the time. Everyone comes to the end of him or herself. That's the great thing about getting to know Jesus as your personal Savior. I don’t mean to step on anyone’s toes and it’s not my intentions, so please forgive me, but many religions say that, "Jesus is just a man." No, He isn't. He outsmarted Satan in death through resurrection, and this was through the Power of God because He is God’s Only Begotten Son, so we’ll have life and not perish. If their philosophies were true, how can they explain Jesus turning water into wine, in the Bible? They can’t! The Hand of God is everywhere. Every thing on Earth has God’s fingerprints stamped all over it, including you and me. Yes, my friend, God is real. Jesus is the only way to get closer to God. He is our advocate to plead our cases to God. Yes, we can get God to change His Mind. God is full of compassion and forgiveness, but let's also remember God is also fair and He does not condone evil in any form. Evil is Satan's specialty.

God wants you to succeed in your life on Earth. He wants you to live out all He placed in you. You are one-of-a-kind.

Believe in the impossible, for with God all things are possible. There's nothing too hard for God. I've been unemployed for a year and I'm starting to wonder what God is doing and why this season in my life is taking so long? Only God knows.

I'm learning He's working on me and smoothing out the kinks in me that is not of Him and depositing His qualities. He's making me better, and wiser, and stronger in Him. I can't depend on me. Every time I do, I fail miserably. One thing is for sure: I can totally depend on God. God is truly amazing in my life. Even though, I'm facing a bitter time in my life, God is still working my current situation for my good.

It may not look like it right now, but He really is working it out for my good. All the people who are against me and they’re not speaking to me, yes, God is working it out.

I’m searching for a job to assist my daily needs. Yes, God is working it out.

My need to be healed from all the hurt I've experienced in 2011, you best believe, He's working it out.

Precious heart, you must claim words of life in your situation. You must say to yourself, "___________ (your name), This is only temporary. My situation isn't permanent. Even though, I'm terrified, but God have something better for me and He's working it out for my good."

This statement right here is putting your faith into action! Claim things into existence before your victory get here. Every passing day, even through my struggles, I'm claiming that everything will be all right. As long as I have God by side, I know He will not fail me. There is no failure in God.

It doesn't matter if you have past mistakes or even current ones, God still loves you and His Arms are open and ready to give you all the loving you need and MORE. He desires to bless you abundantly above all you can ask or think. Most people think about earthly things, but I'm also referring to who you are spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. When we set our hearts on things in Earth, we'll constantly be disappointed, but when we run to God, one thing is for certain, His Word stands forever. There are encouraging scriptures that will always meet your need and will sustain you until your deliverance comes through!

Link up with like-minded people: people who think like you think. Negative and positive don't mix! They have nothing in common. Negative is associated with darkness (evil) and positive is associated with light (God).

If you're not able to pray for yourself, ask God to send you someone who will pray for you, who will actually get a prayer through for you! Don't get someone who says, "Oh, I will pray for you." and he or she doesn't actually do it. Because his or her intentions may not line up with God, and he or she can do you more harm than good. You can feel when someone is really praying for you because you notice things in the natural realm are gradually changing.

Nothing happens overnight in the natural, but in the spiritual realm, your crisis is always changing in heaven. Something about a sincere broken cry moves God, and you want to know why? Because God loves coming to your rescue, He won't let you fall even when others intend for you to slip. And even when the incident occurs, God is still working a blessing in the midst of your turmoil.

You know what gets me through when I'm not sure my daily needs aren't met. I simply rely on Philippians 4:19 KJV: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. I make it personal to me like this: "But You shall supply all my needs according to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Yes, make it personal, so you can connect with God. This is how you grow closer in Him.

Another scripture that helps make my prayer life effective is relying on Matthew 21:22 KJV: And all things, whatsoever ye (you) shall ask in prayer, believing, ye (you) shall receive.

If you're lacking in faith, it's okay to admit your struggle to God, and be honest! You have to go deep on what caused you to doubt God. I know it will be painful, but it is the only way for your deliverance. That's how God delivered me. I'm not saying you won't have days, because you will have moments. That's what makes us human!

Know that whatever you're facing right now, God is here for you. He has all the solutions to your problems. Lean on Him. If you're not able to pray for yourself, I will be more than gladly to pray for you and with you:

Father, I come to You today, releasing all my cares on You. It seems like no matter which direction I turn, it's one disaster after the next. But Lord, I'm counting on You because I'm out of solutions and I'm not sure what tomorrow will bring for me. I have a hard time trusting and believing in You. Help me to get past my doubts and bless me to rely on you regardless of my situation. I need a breakthrough and I want You to perform miracles in my life daily. Thank you for answering my prayers and meeting my needs in advance, in Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

If you believe in this prayer and you receive your miracle, then it's already done. Be patient and wait to see the salvation of the Lord work it out on your behalf! Know that I love you with the love of Christ and we're in this together. It's a privilege to share you what's going on in my life, to let you know, yes, we, Christians, struggle too, just like anyone, and it's okay to confess it! In order to be strong, you must acknowledge you're weak. And in your weakness, that is where God will make you strong. Keep your head up and don't stop believing for the best in your life. If God be for you, who can be against you? Enjoy your day, beloved, and keep pressing on.

Errors Interviewers, Managers, and Co-Workers Make

I decided to write this today because yesterday's interview along with Monday's appointment at the unemployment office inspired me to say what the Lord wants me to share with you. I find it interesting how the interviewers, who set up the posts on job searching sites, desire to hire those who meet their qualifications, but once they contact you to come in, they’re not what you expect them to be or they’re what you expect them to be. And category two applies to me. I'll explain why in a minute.

Yesterday, I had other business to attend before my interview. It was urgent and I couldn't delay it. Yes, it was that serious. That's what life is about. You have to do things you don't want to, in order to survive until something better comes along.

Okay, forwarding to the interview. I was riding on the 6 Train, (for those of you who never lived in New York, it's the Lexington Line on the East Side of Manhattan) and I arrived there on time. To my surprise, it wasn't a typical interview. It was a group interview. I felt awkward because I was dreading the questions she was going to ask. On the contrary, the interviewer's dog ran to me and her pet automatically likes me. Rocky was licking my ankle while I was petting his head. He really made my day in spite of the anxiety I was feeling.

When the interviewer asked me what happened to my last job. I couldn't lie, so I briefly told the truth, "Wrongful termination." As soon as I said it, the other candidates dropped their heads and evidently, I knew they felt my pain. Here is where the interview went sour for me. I noticed the interviewer was showing more favoritism towards the other interviewees versus me. Here is where she went wrong: she was wrong to assume that I caused it. You might say that is expected, but technically and legally speaking it is ignorant and narrow-minded. You can't assume because someone is terminated that he or she initially is the problem. Things are not what they appear to be.

And internally, I was loathing this interview more and more. She interrupted me while I was talking and kept undermining me when I was pointing out my strongest points as a worker. I felt empty and like trash. She was talking about no drama and she cursed in the interview, "Excuse me for saying this but I want no bull****. It is not allowed. We're friendly and close, and we like to keep it that way."

And no one can blame her for saying this, but it was her delivery that troubled me. God showed me a revelation while I was sitting at the table why DRAMA starts in the workforce: people do unnecessary things spiritually that upsets the tone in the work atmosphere.

Humor me for a moment and ponder what I'm saying here. If you've been in my shoes, then I'm glad you know where I'm heading. If not, hang tight. Maybe this message needs to enlighten you on this sensitive subject, my friend!

Here are some ways to know when you're poorly mistreated and not being respected as the worker you are:

1. Favoritism.

This is the number one, at least in my work experiences, what causes segregation and lousy performance in workers. Tension and strife, resentment and under-appreciation, wrongful whistle blowing and scheming is what causes overwhelming job losses.

I always keep God Word, as a reminder and a golden rule, hidden in my heart when it comes to treating others. "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12 NIV)

In other words, treat others how you want to be treated. If you don't like people talking harsh to you, don't talk harshly to them. I don't know why most people forget this rule, but sometimes I honestly believe they deliberately choose to be ignorant because they don't want others to see their insecurities.

2. Lack of Respect.

Several co-workers and managers make these common mistakes. When the manager sets an example of treating certain employees better than others, this is where disrespect comes in. When a "Suzie" or "Mark" is always being chummy with the boss, but wrongly mistreat you behind the manager's back. This is where misconception about you is being brought to the “light.”

You could be minding your own business and doing what you’re supposed to do, so you can survive until your dreams come into fruition. Dreams don't happen overnight, they are work-in-progress and they need to be nurtured carefully, so you can be the person God intends you to be, whatever it is you have a passion for.

3. Gossiping and Slander.

People who love to gossip confuses venting with gossiping. Venting and gossiping isn't the same thing. If a person is venting or complaining about a particular problem that is affecting his or her work performance, this means he or she is crying out for help. He or she is not causing chaos. He or she wants a solution!

How many times have you been misunderstood for something you said and backbiters twist your words to make you look evil, when that isn't what you said at all? Let's be real here, this happens all the time in the workforce and we do nothing about it and allow innocent by-standers lose their jobs in the process.

When a person is causing you grief and making you seem like a monster, he or she doesn't want anyone to know it's really him or her stirring the drama—not you. And then, other co-workers look at you like you have stolen something precious from them and they don’t speak to you in the same manner anymore. It's sad, but this often happens.

There is nothing cute about intentionally defaming one's character. I go by this policy, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Hey, it keeps you out of the conspiring group!

4. No communication and not listening.

The reason why no one communicates properly is because no one takes the time to listen and understand. These two terms goes hand-in-hand. One person is doing the talking while the other is listening and absorbing what he or she is saying. In order to understand, it's important to ask questions so we can get clarity of what other individuals are saying to us.

The reason for wrongful termination is because the manager refuses to comprehend and to have compassion for the emotionally injured party. It doesn't matter if the manager likes the worker or not, the manager's job is supposed to be fair—at all times.

Right is right and wrong is wrong. And I want you to know, please don't be afraid of speaking the truth, but handle the truth gracefully, if you can help it. Managers and Shift Supervisors are titles, not humans with names and emotions. It's not who you are and that is not your name. Your name identifies you as the unique person you are and separates you from others. You are truly special and never let anyone tell you otherwise. You are important and you have plenty to offer to those who are available to have you in their lives.

5. Don't discriminate.

Most people believe this term only refers to race or gender. But I use this word broadly because discrimination comes in many forms, which is based on personal biased opinions that are not based on facts.

These are the facts: You know what you can bring to the table and you know your strengths and weaknesses in the workforce. You know what you will and will not do. You know that everything you do in life, you must be the best person you can be. Always give it your all—no matter what profession you are in.

Don't let others look down on you because you are not "favorable" in their sight. What's important is you have God's Favor. God's Favor is undeniable. That's what I love about Him. As David so eloquently states in Psalms 30:5 KJV, "For his (God's) anger endureth but a moment; in his (God's) favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." (I put the emphasis on life and joy because God's results are always promising and permanent.)

I'm breaking this down for you, so you can get a clearer understanding and grasp these golden nuggets to help you go on with your life. God doesn't hold a grudge the way we, humans, do. And I'm so glad because He is quick to forgive and He doesn't hold your past against you. This is why He sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins, in our place instead, and bless us with God's eternal forgiveness.

Whatever your tears are caused by, please know, precious heart, it is only a season. And this is what the woman, at the unemployment office, said to the group on Monday about being unemployed, it's only for a season. It's all about perspective. Just because this is what I'm facing right now, it doesn't mean this is my permanent outcome!

A person who read my post sent me an encouraging e-mail and her words lift up my heart, indeed. Saying encouraging words, in season, will always benefit your soul. It's like eating golden apples that is satisfying, not only, to your stomach, but to your soul.

It's disappointing when we have more people who discourage others than encourage them.

I won't be moved if the interviewer contacts me or not, because I know what type of company I won't work for. I refuse to work for a company who will not allow my abilities to shine and help make its business productive. And if she rejects me, it's her loss. And I'm okay with that. I see it this way: God's got a better job that is suited for me.

And the same applies to you. God always will have Favor with you, but He does not show favoritism to one versus the other. He's fair in an unfair world. He will fight your battles for you. And when I explained my wrongful termination to the woman at the unemployment office, I noticed she listened carefully while I was shedding tears, and she said, "The problem is in her (my former co-worker), not you."

I needed to hear this and know this, because the enemy wants me to believe that I'm the blame. And I knew this was correct because when I prayed last year over this incident, the Lord revealed the same answer that I'm innocent and the problem is in my former co-worker. And what's so fascinating God used this woman, on Monday, to confirm what I told my former co-worker that what goes around comes around and there is nothing she can do about it. And when it happens to her, it will hit her hard and she won't know how to handle it, because she deliberately hurt others to lose their jobs (no, I'm not the only person she did this to. Others were fired because of her dastardly behavior).

I want you to know that no workplace is perfect, but it doesn't mean we have to partake in any drama, which others bring because of simple boredom in their lives. Usually when others cause trouble in your life at work, it's because they have nothing else better to do. And I'm saying this because the girl who caused me to get fired confessed this to me that she has no life. It's evident she has issues, but who doesn't have issues? The difference is in how you handle your problems.

I hope something resonated well with you today. If so, then God gets the Glory in my life, for speaking this to you. And if you're still hurting, I will gladly pray for you:

Father, I come to You as a broken vessel because I'm hurting and I'm afraid. I'm doing the best I can in this recession, but I can only do so much. Help me to remember that You are in control and You will not let this situation take me under. Be my Guide, my Comforter, my Friend, and my Provider. Bless me to trust You, even though I'm not certain of the outcome. I release my current situation over to You. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Eagle vs. Pigeon

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31 KJV)

I know it's been a while. I've been dealing with a lot lately and I've been questioning my dark season. Honestly, I'm not sure how much more I can bear. But today, God inspired me to write this post. Maybe you're going through a dark period in your life as well. You're probably wondering why I named this post: Eagle vs. Pigeon. Believe me, it's with good reason. I'm smiling as I write this and I pray this message will marinate well in your soul.

My mind went back to 2011, where everything went sour for me. And a particular man comes to my mind as I write this. Although, I will not reveal who he is, but this is fitting for what God wants to say to you. Several people misconstrue eagle with pigeon. I will explain why, so hang in there with me. You're in for a wonderful ride.

The Lord poured this revelation in my spirit because many believe that being an "eagle" means to crush and destroy those around us just so we can rise to the top. Too many are caught up in the hype that, "If I become rich and famous, I'm a somebody." And this statement is not necessarily true. You have plenty of rich and famous stars who are struggling daily in their personal lives, trying to live the best lives they can. And I don't blame them. They're trying to hang on to the little reality they have left in their homes, where no one can see what's going on inside.

Just because everything appears rosy on the outside, it doesn't mean everything is well on the inside. This man desires to be an actor and somehow he's deluding himself to believe that if he cuts me out of his life, he will still make it in Hollywood. One thing I've learned quickly that pride always comes before destruction—always!

On the surface, things are going "well" for him, but I know for certain what he has done to me will slap him hard in the face. And he won't buy his way out of it either. He's not sorry for what he has done to me and he makes it no secret he gets a kick out of hurting me and embarrassing me. And to be honest, God frowns on this kind of behavior. This guy believes he is an eagle, but in reality he is a pigeon because of his way-of-thinking.

An eagle is a team player and encourages others to hang in there when life gets tough.

A pigeon gets a kick out of hurting others and believes the world owes him or her what's due to him or her.

An eagle is humble and always remembers that life changes in an instant and the seeds he or she sow, which he or she will also reap. Good things will harvest to those who do their best to live their lives, and never hurt their brothers and sisters in the process.

A pigeon is selfish and thinks he or she can use money or other bargaining tools to win others over just to make him or her look "good" in the sight of others (seeking false approval).

An eagle is considerate and is never afraid to soar when others believe he or she will fail, when God says he or she will overcome this battle he or she is currently facing.

A pigeon manipulates others to get what he or she can for a moment, but his or her foolishness reaps a lifetime of turmoil and agony.

An eagle realizes when he or she makes a mistake and not afraid to correct it. An eagle understands that before success arrives, failure always makes its presence known before his or her time to shine appears.

An eagle learns from his or her mistakes and makes amends to those he or she offends. An eagle learns humility through his or her trying times and becomes better not bitter.

A pigeon cares about being with the in-crowd and falling under the pressure to please others and wants approval to feel his or her worth.

An eagle finds his or her worth in his or her pit. An eagle finds the strength to spread his or her wings, and he or she is not afraid of the challenges he or she faces because God is right there with him or her—every step of the way.

You see where I'm going with this? I hope so.

Think of it this way: eagles soar alone while pigeons fly in a group.

Which one will you be today? I choose to be an eagle. And being an eagle is not only brave to spread its wings, but is not afraid to soar and think big with the possibilities while flying with God when others say, “It’s impossible.” When you put your hand in God's Hand, you won't fail because there is no failure in God.

He loves you and sees your struggles. He knows your disappointments and failures, but He is right there with you. He'll never leave you or forsake you. And nothing shall separate you from the love of God. Don't fall in the pigeon category. Yes, “pigeons” fly, but they are limited in thinking. Think like an “eagle,” so you can soar and that every person, you come across, will either soar with you or fly south.

Eagles recognize eagles. It's quite clear the guy who dissed me is a “pigeon.” He only wants to be around others when times are good and ditches them when times are bad. He's definitely a fair-weather friend and I'm so glad he is out of my life. And when the time comes and we will run into each other, because God has a wild sense of humor like that, the man will be sorry that he misjudged me and mistreated me. And you know what? I will forgive him—so I will be blessed and continue to remain blessed, because a person like him will never find true success in hurting others just so he can make it. And he will learn it the hard way. So I'm stepping out of the way and I will continue trusting in God. I already know, in my soul, He's already working out my situation in my favor.

I hope this resonates well with you today. If not, I will say a prayer for you:

Father, I stretch my hands to you. I'm having a hard time believing You're working things out for my good. It seems like everything is going from bad to worse. I'm not sure how much more I can bear. I'm not sure if I can hang on anymore. Move by Your Spirit, LORD. Move on my behalf and others who are struggling, too. Strengthen me in my time of weakness. I believe by faith You already worked my situation out for my good. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Continue to follow your dreams and never be afraid to help someone else along the way. You'll be surprised how this favor returns to you when you least expect it.

Working Out for Your Good

Happy Fantastic Friday!

As I'm taking a break from brushing up with grammar testing, learning an online course of Cleaning Your Copy (which is helpful, by the way), editing and revising my e-book, which will go back up for sale at the appointed time, I want to take the time to encourage you today. The Lord pressed this upon my heart because, lately, I've been dealing with some discouragement and I’m not ashamed to admit it. I've learned when you're real with yourself; life will work itself out through God’s Hands. He's in control, no matter how much we try to "maneuver" our own path. Yes, we can make plans, but it must line up with God, so He can make provision on what necessary steps we need to take. "In his (her) heart a man (a woman) plans his (her) course, but the LORD determines his (her) steps." (Proverbs 16:9 NIV)

Am I losing you? I hope not.

If you’re following me, then I'm glad we're on the same page.

I won't lie to you; job searching is a pain-in-the-neck for me. Last year, what happened to me wasn't my fault (too many details to get into). It was a clear sign that the enemy doesn't want me to achieve what God has already orchestrated for me to do: to inspire you!

I know without a shadow of a doubt—I'm on the right track. The enemy used many people in my path of 2011, and yet, I'm still here by God's grace.

My heart isn't grieving as much like last year (yes, 2011 was a horrendous year for me).

Somehow, God managed to keep me in spite of all the agony I went through and still going through, to a certain extent. I don't know about you, but I'm certainly scared for my future because I can't see far ahead! However, I know this much that God gave me power to speak what I want to happen in my life. You see, when walking in faith, faith defies logic!

Huh?

Yes, faith really does. I will explain why.

I want to clarify you can't rule out logic entirely, but when it comes to certain circumstances in your life, and you've done all you can to make a situation work, this is where surrendering your burdens to the Lord comes in.

I can practically hear you saying, "But, Chimere. It's easier said than done. I can't ignore what's in front of me. Are you suggesting to me that I need to forget what I know?"

Yep. When it comes to entering God's throne of grace, our superior knowledge, filled with education or life experiences, can't compare with God's Wisdom. He is a Way Maker and nothing surprises God, and nothing or no one can outsmart Him.

He is all knowing and He already knows what's going on with you and me. I'm at the end of my rope and I need God to perform a miracle for me ... well, a couple of miracles for me. My faith is challenged through the fire and I honestly don't know how much more heat I can bear (laughing dryly).

But God already has a plan for me. Even though, I can't see His provision, but I know He's working it out for my good because this is what He promised me. I realize my situation is beyond my control and I can only do so much what God allows me to do with my human limitations.

We, as humans, have limits—but God doesn't. I love the sound of this. I feel confident in knowing He is moving on my behalf. He knows my heart and my intentions. Granted, I make mistakes, but the Lord knows I'm pure in heart. But what happens if you made a terrible mistake and you're not sure you can be redeemed?

I can answer this confidently: as long as you're sincere with God and you mean it with your whole heart, God will always redeem you with His Forgiveness.

1 John 1:9 K.J.V. tells us, "If we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." And this is true, I know, because there were times when I've slipped and came clean with God and He washed me and purified me like a Loving Father does. Remember: God doesn't condemn, Satan does.

Satan always tries to place blame and bring up your past, to make you feel inadequate. Religious folks will put on a façade, acting like they are holier-than-thou, "believing" they have it all together, which isn’t true.

I have a problem when certain people who are "convinced" they are ordained by God and wrongfully throw daggers at us imperfect folks, who are trying to do the best we can. Synthetic rules just don't apply when it comes to seeking God's face like never before.

I've been having alone time with God and I've been pondering where everything went wrong for me in 2011. Lord knows I've tried, I really tried doing and being my best. I've also come to realize that sometimes our best is all we can provide. We can't solve everything. Some situations are best left in God's Hands—not ours.

That's why I love God because He is a miracle worker. He knows how to triumph the enemy's plan, which Satan uses against us. Glory to God! He knows how to step in and rescue us at our faintest hour. He is better than Superman. He's our Super Friend (like Mary Mary sings on their CD: The Sound). He's more powerful than any tornado and war that occurs in our world. He's much sweeter than honey on a honeycomb. He's all I could ask for and more.

No matter what happens to me, I know God got my back (I know this isn’t correct, but I’m making a point). God always make a way out of no way. When people mean you for evil; God, somehow, constructs a way to surpass the hurt that intends to harm you. And surprisingly, in time's own way, God ensures a way where Satan is left confounded and frustrated.

Is there anything too hard for God? No.

I feel God moving on my behalf in the spirit realm, even though, it doesn't appear this way in the natural realm. No matter how afraid you are, you must know God is working it out for your good. It may not look like it right now, but know it's working out for your good.

Don't worry about the "Goliath" standing in your way. And whatever "Goliath" desires to remain constant in your life, please know that God has already destroyed the mountain in advance!

I'm learning to praise God in the midst of my storms. You see, happiness is based on circumstances and not what dwells in your soul. If you take away the big houses, fancy cars, and other perks that's been added in your life, can you truly say you will find a reason to smile?

I can.

Don’t get me wrong, who doesn’t want nice things and to achieve it? Nonetheless, objects can’t fill the voids in your life, but having a relationship with God can!

Joy exceeds happiness. Happiness is based on condition, but joy isn't. For instance, today when I came home from job searching, I saw a little boy; he couldn't be no more than 2-years-old or 3. I laughed at him when he held his little arm out while walking away from the moving car (the boy was on the sidewalk) that was parking in the empty spot. He said, "You're not waiting for me to move."

I couldn't stop laughing, but his comment brought a smile to face. And I know in spite of my current situation, God is in control. It’s like God is illustrating to me about moving on His timing. God's timing is everything. I'm learning I can't move ahead of Him nor can I move behind Him, but beside Him. God and I are in this together. Wherever He wants me to go—I'm there. God is carrying me through my trials and tribulations. He's being my main confidant through it all.

God is so awesome. He's magnificent and He's altogether lovely. He's perfect when I'm not. Amen? He knows what step I'm taking before I'm considering it. He protects me from situations I cannot see or people who seeks to hurt me. He warns me, when needed, and He comforts me when I have no one to console me. I can always rely on His Word. Because, in His Word, there is peace, love, and joy.

When friends turn their backs on me. When enemies seek to annihilate my soul. When things seem to fall apart, I know God is here. And He's here right now. Maybe you, too, are ready to throw in the towel. Maybe you feel like no one is listening and no one cares. But I come here to tell you God is moving on your behalf. Don't give up and don't give in, no matter how detrimental your situation may seem. Hang in there and know God's help is on the way. In due time, you will see how your tumultuous situation is working out for your good.

"And we know that all things work for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his (God's) purpose." Romans 8:28 (K.J.V.)

Enough said.