Day 28- It Takes Time

Day 28 Of "The Purpose Driven Life" was very comforting for me so I wanted to share with you all.

Rick Warren starts this chapter off by saying "There are NO shortcuts to maturity. Spiritual growth, just like physical growth, takes time. We often find ourselves worrying about how fast we grow, while God is mainly concerned with how strong we grow. He talks about how growth is a gradual process. This chapter really forced me into introspection. I've never been great at being patient. A lot of us can be tied to this "microwave generation" concept. 

Microwave Generation

Describing our fascination with instant gratification. As members of the microwave generation we have become so impatient, we find ourselves standing in front of the microwave tapping our foot yelling "Come on 15 seconds!"

 We are obsessed with speed. We want things to happen now. We want our perfect lasting relationship or marriage now. We want our dream job now. If you're an athlete, you may want all the playing time & championships now. We want the promotion now. We want the financial blessings now. We want the car, the house..Now. We want a sermon or an experience that will instantly solve our problems NOW. I have definitely caught myself in this state of mind. I've learned to embrace the process. In some situations, God has even forced me to wait, which I'm very thankful for now. I keep this note I wrote last year on my computer in my office as a daily reminder. 

KEY POINTS FROM BOOK

Wondering Why Growth & Maturity Takes So Long?

*We Are Slow Learners- We often have to relearn a lesson over and over to really get it. We go back to our old patterns of behavior.

*We Have A Lot To Unlearn- We have tons of old habits, patterns, & practices which are usually bad, that need to be removed and replaced. This takes HardWork, Time, & Dedication.

*We Are Afraid To Humbly Face The Truth About Ourselves- We are scared of what we might discover if we honestly faced our character. 

*Growth Is Often Painful & Scary- There is no growth without change. There is no change without fear or loss. There is no loss with pain!

*Good Habits Take Time To Develop- Your character is the sum of your habits. Bad Habits are so easy to develop but GOOD habits take time. 

Embrace The Process! 

*Believe God Is Working In Your Life Even When You Don't Feel IT!

*Keep A Notebook or Journal Of Lessons Learned- I just type everything in my "Notes" app on my phone. It's always with you & easy to do, if you don't like writing.

*Be Patient With God & With Yourself- God's timetable is rarely the same as ours. 

*Don't Get Discouraged!- Habakkuk 2:3 This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.

Pastor AD Daily Inspiration

Here's Some Daily Inspiration from Pastor Adrian Davis! 

BNspired

You Are Good!

I woke up this morning with this song on my heart. If you haven't already, Bnspired to check out Tye Tribbett's latest album "Greater Than". Honestly, it's an amazing album. Check out this song & reflect on your life. Hasn't God been GOOD to you? Have you told him or thanked him? Despite our circumstances, He's still good to all of us. 

Romans 8:28 "And we know that God causes everything to work together  for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them."

Are You In A Waiting Season?

This was one of my devotions a couple days ago from an app called "Devotion". It's a really awesome app to have. BNspired to download it and check it out. It's FREE!

The devotion stated: As children it is very difficult to sit for 15 minutes because it feels like forever. Yet, with age comes the rapid speed of passing time. When it comes to waiting on the Lord, why do it feel like we are children all over again? Then, when the waiting is over, God produces an unexpected & undeserved outcome and the waiting becomes insignificant. If you find yourself in a period of waiting for the Lord, gather your patience and know that He is working FOR you. 

I just wanted to share this because I feel as though I'm in a waiting season myself. Ironically, just as I had finished praying about patience, I opened this app & read this. It was right on time. If you're in a waiting season like myself, BNspired to keep your faith, a positive mindset, & an expecting attitude. 

God Is Going To Show Up & Show Out Sooner Than Later! 

SPZRKT

Came across this AWESOME Christian Singer

Check Out Some Of His Songs Below 

Download the mixtape at 

https://soundcloud.com/strt_trbl/sets/spzrkt-lucid-dream

Collide

Love & Pain

BC

Universe 

Commitments

Day 23 On "The Purpose Driven Life"- The title of this chapter was "How We Grow". Rick Warren basically speaks about how God wants us to grow up. We've all heard the saying, "Some people grow older, but never grow up". Many of us fall into this category whether you're a Christian or not. 

Rick states: Spiritual growth is not automatic. It takes an intentional commitment. You must want to grow, decide to grow, make an effort to grow, and persist in growing. I definitely agree. I also think this applies to overall growth in general, not just spiritual growth. Have you ever really thought about how much making and keeping commitments impacts your life? Think about it. Read the page/picture ahead. Our commitments shapes our lives. They can develop us or destroy us but either way they define us. We become whatever we're committed to. 

BNspired to take some time and think about your commitments. Are you truly committed to something or just drifting through life. Are you half-hearted committed to something? If you are then the majority of the time you will find yourself frustrated or mediocre. Are you only committed to worldly goals; becoming wealthy or famous? Many of us are afraid to commit to anything. 

What are you willing to commit to? 

A Love Story On This "LOVELY" Day

Since today is "Valentine's Day", I wanted to share an amazing "Jesus Love Story" with you all. Please, PLEASE watch these videos in order. A friend of mine stated,

 "True Love Is Experienced Best When You Respect God & The Process. I believe that's true.

 Enjoy & Happy Valentine's Day!

1st Watch This Video by Preston Perry

 "Soul Ties" 

Now Watch This Video by Jackie Hill "Life As A Stud" 

Now Watch This Video by Preston Perry "Covenant"

Last But Not Least Watch These 2 Videos 

Journey To Covenant Episode 1 & 2

BNspired! 

Inspiration on This "LOVELY" Day

Covenant by Preston Perry-MUST SEE

I came across this passionate, inspirational poem yesterday. I'm still inspired by it. Check It Out!!

Does Time Really Heal All?

I'm on Day 20 of Reading "Purpose Driven Life". Today the author speaks about restoring relationships. While reading this particular page, I had a "Light Bulb" moment. 

It says "In conflict, time heals nothing; it causes hurts to fester". I've never heard of that or really thought about it. I've been so used to the old saying 

 . 

 We've all heard that at least once right? Until today, I really believed in that. Time really doesn't heal anything when it comes to pain. It actually causes things to become worse. The longer you hold on to hurts, pain, conflict, etc. The longer those things can and will consume you. Do you have any broken  meaningful relationships in your life that needs to be restored? 

Here are 7 Key Steps To Restoring Fellowship:

*Talk to God before talking to the person.

*Always Take The Initiative

*Sympathize With Their Feelings

*Confess My Part Of The Conflict

*Attack The Problem, Not The Person

*Emphasize Reconciliation, Not Resolution

BEST ARTIST EVER!

God is The Creator of All. Do you ever take time to take in how amazingly creative and beautiful he makes this world? I get fascinated by how beautiful the sky can be at times. 

I take pictures all the time, even if I'm driving 

(DO NOT BNSPIRED TO DO THAT lol). 

because I really love to capture the moment. It makes me really appreciate him even more.

Next time during your SUPER BUSY life if you're driving, taking a walk outside, or even on a plane, become aware of God. Look up and take notice of how amazing he is & acknowledge him. 

He is the BEST Artist Ever!   

Facebook Inspiration

This Speaks Volumes! 

Zaressa!

I have a friend named Zaressa. We went to Samford University together. She still lives here in Birmingham. We don't get to hang out as much but I seen her a few weeks ago & we were able to catch up a little bit. It was really good to see her. This past Thursday I woke up at 7:30 & the first thing I see is this text from her. It really blessed my heart! I can honestly say I've been doing better at pursuing my personal relationship with God as well as really trying to live right. I've planted a lot of seeds. I'm not just talking about tithing but good seeds in general (giving to people, having the right attitude towards others & situations, nice gestures, etc). Lately I had been feeling like everything was still the same in my life. I was feeling like nothing was really growing. I couldn't see it. Crazy right? I know I'm not the only person who has felt this way before so I'm not ashamed to share that. I would ask "God when will show up for me?" "I know you can see me, my growth and my effort".

The night before I received this text, I literally prayed about all these things Zaressa mentioned. This was the discernment I needed from God. Sometimes he won't give it to you directly but he'll give it to you through others. I'm so thankful to have a friend that can SPEAK into my life like Zaressa! Good hearted, genuine people are rare. 

Thanks You Again Z! 

What Drives Your Life??

This was Day 3 of "Purpose Driven Life". I really should have posted this a long time ago since I'm on day 19 right now but I still want to share it. On this day it asked an important question.. "What Drives Your Life?" Drive is defined as: to guide, to control, or to direct. We all are driven by something. The author states that there are hundreds of values, circumstances, & emotions that can drive your life. 

The 5 Most Common Ones Are:

*Guilt-running from regrets and hiding shame

*Resentment & Anger- holding on to hurts & never getting over them

*FEAR- from result of traumatic experiences, unrealistic expectations, growing up in a high control home, or genetic predisposition

Materialism- desiring to acquire becomes the entire goal of your life. Feeling that having More will make you more happy, more important, or more secure. 

Need for Approval- allowing expectations of other people(parents, friends, teachers, children) to control your life

Is your life driven by one or more of these things? Be honest with yourself. Are you materialistic? Are you a people pleaser to the point that what other people think of you consumes you? Do you have anger and resentment built up in your heart from things that happened years ago? Do you have a ton of regrets? 

All these things leads to the same thing: Unused potential, unnecessary stress, & an unfulfilled life!

Find Your Purpose In Life & Your Purpose Will Give Meaning To Your Life.

5 Benefits Of Living A Purpose Driven Life

*Purpose Gives Meaning To Your Life- Without God, life has no purpose; The greatest tragedy is not death, but life without purpose. 

*Purpose Simplifies Your Life- It defines what you do and what you don't do. Your purpose becomes the standard you use to evaluate which activities are essential & which are not. You ask yourself"Does this activity help me fulfill one of God's purposes for my life?"

*Purpose Focuses Your Life- It concentrates your effort & energy on what's important! You become effective by being selective

*Purpose Motivates Your Life- Purpose produces passion! Passion starts to die when you lack a purpose

*Purpose Prepares You For Eternity- Many of us spend our time on earth trying to create a lasting legacy but what really matters most will not be what others say about your life. It'll be What God Says! 

Lauryn Hill - Tell Him

This song has been in my spirit the last few days. I'm a huge fan of Lauryn Hill. This is definitely one of my favorite worship songs. Check Out the lyrics below. 

BNspired

Kevin Durant!

Anyone who watches the NBA knows how GREAT of an athlete Kevin Durant is. This was his post interview after a game a couple weeks ago. 

While watching this, I couldn't help but think of how powerful and influential this interview was. It was funny too because the reporter seemed to be thrown for a loop after he gave all Glory to God & none to himself. A MAJOR part of God's glory is giving our gifts back to Him & Durant does this consistently. I know Durant is on a bigger stage bc he is a Superstar NBA player BUT we all should strive to give God Glory no matter what stage we're on. Big Ups to Durant! 

Seen this post by a friend via IG!! He recognized this greatness as well!!

BNspired

Bad Habits Anyone??

One of my morning devotions was on Breaking Bad Habits. We all have them right? I know I do. 

Here is what my devotion said. 

click to make images larger

Try To See The Good In Everything

This past week in Birmingham, Al was very VERY interesting. We were caught completely off guard by a winter snow storm. Winter snow storm? In Alabama? YES, that is correct! Due to how cold it was, the snow was able to stick to the ground & quickly turn into ice. I've never witnessed something happen so fast. Everything started closing, people were in a rush to get to their families and hopefully make it home. A TON of people were stranded on highways. A TON of kids had to stay at their schools overnight. People had to spend the night at their workplace, salons, restaurants, their cars, & even Walmart! Some people decided to walk many miles to their loved ones or home. Throughout all the craziness that went on, it was really good to see how people pulled together & helped others out. What's that saying? 
"There Is  Beauty In Every Storm". I truly believe that after this week. 

This Doctor walked 6 MILES in the Snow Storm to perform Brain Surgery!! How Heroic is That!!

An ambulance crashed on their way to pick up a pregnant lady who was in labor. The doctors talked her boyfriend through the delivery process. They were able to deliver a healthy baby!! God is amazing!

Here is a picture of a major high way here in Birmingham. It became a parking lot. 

I seen this post on facebook & thought it humorous as well as true!! I think it's always good to pull some positives from a bad situation! 

S/O to Janaye!

BNspired!

40 Day Purpose Driven Life

Today along with an accountability partner, I started this 40 Day Journey to Discover My True Purpose. I'm excited! I will be sharing with you all via my blog, my experience!

 "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren is among the New York Times Best Sellers List. Have you discovered your True Purpose in Life yet? If not Join Us! Go grab a copy of this book!

BNspired

The Dangers of Detachment Bible Study Notes

Here are my notes from Bible Study this week at The Rock Church here in Birmingham, Al! Ever felt detached from God? 

Check These Notes Out ASAP

Click To Make Notes Larger

BNspired

"Formerly Known" by Andy Mineo

Andy Mineo is a talented Christian rapper. He's very versatile and one of my favorite artists to listen to. You can download one of his best mixtapes right here for free!! Just click the link and give his music a shot. You will not be disappointed.

 http://reachrecords.com/releases/show/Formally-Known-Mixtape

SPEAK LIFE!

Ask Yourself This Question... "What Am I Speaking Over My Life"? Are you speaking Life over your circumstances? Are you speaking fear? Are you speaking frustration? Are you speaking doubt? Are you speaking negativity? Are you speaking EXCUSES? 

Many of us fall victim to these things at some point. Some of us have a negative habit of speaking death instead of life over our circumstances without even knowing it. It's a habit. We may say things like "Man I just can't seem to do anything right, it's not going to happen, it'll never happen, I feel terrible, I'm broke, I'm going to fail, I Can't, etc..." Do these things sound familiar? 

Many of us know that the power of life & death lie in the power of the tongue but do you really believe that? 

BNspired to DO SOMETHING NEW! BNspired to Speak Life over yourself & your circumstances! Everyday I wake up, I'm making it a habit to Speak Life. I say things like "Today will be a Great, Productive, Positive Day. Today I will help someone in a great way. Today I am extremely blessed & favored. Today I will be productive. I Am Blessed, I am prosperous, I am beautiful. ETC.. 

Check out this AWESOME song called "Speak Life"! 

Here are some affirmations you can start to speak over your life. 

BNspired

Happy MLK Day!!

If Not For Love Then Why?

I was driving to work one rainy morning and while I was at a red light, I looked over and seen this. Inspiration is truly everywhere if we take a moment to notice. "If Not for Love Then Why?" A lot of things came to mind when I 1st seen this. Instantly I wanted to capture the moment, so I took a picture. I started thinking about the aspects of LOVE. I believe it's our sole purpose on this earth. Some may say "well if its not for love then its for the MONEY" lol I guess that really does depend on who you're asking but I would take LOVE over MONEY any day. True Real LOVE... Rare, but it's there. 

BNspired to Love More. Love What You Do. Love The People Around You. Love Strangers. It's a million ways you can show love throughout your day, Do IT! 

I Think Myself Happy

I'm pretty sure you have heard this before right? The only person in charge of your happiness is YOU! Paul said in Acts 26:2 "I think myself happy". Sounds like a good idea to me! Think more on positive thoughts that make you happy. This could include happy memories, doing things that make you happy, going places that make you happy, etc. See yourself being happy then begin to speak those things into existence. Go out & Make It Happen. 

BNspired to CHOOSE HAPPINESS today over frustration, dissatisfaction, uncomfortable circumstances, excuses, loneliness, etc. CHOOSE to CREATE your OWN HAPPINESS. 

Do You Feel Good?

I really believe the more you "Feel Good" the better your day will go as well as your life! The Secret is a very interesting documentary I watched back in 2013 about how your feelings, thoughts, & words really shape your life. I think it's a ton of truth to that. BNspired to focus more on things that make you FEEL GOOD! See how your life begins to change!

The Rock Church App!

Do you have "The Rock" Church App Yet? If Not, What Are You Waiting On??? If you are ever in need of a good word thats very relatable & engaging download this app!! There are several sermons you can watch or listen too. BNspired!

Isaiah 43:18-19!!!!

These are my #2014verses! In all I do, I reflect on these 2 verses. Do you have a 2014 verse that really speaks to your life?

BNspired to find you a verse or 2 to really reflect on & believe in for your future. It's really awesome. I picked these 2 verses from Isaiah towards the end of 2013. Right around the time January 1st came around I seen this post from Joel Osteen as well as this Verse of the Day on my Bible app. 

"You Will" @andymineo Acoustic Cover | @whatisjoedoing @chansolegit

CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME SONG COVER TO ANDY MINEO "YOU WILL"

Finish Strong Bible Study Notes!!

Here are my notes from bible study last week.

 FINISH STRONG 

Click on Notes to Make Larger

Also if you would like me to send you these notes via email, just shoot a quick comment below!

BNspired

Finish 2013 Strong!

Can you really believe we're almost half way through December? Time has been flying. Despite everything we've all went through in 2013, we still have time left to finish this year out strong! I'm determined to do so. This morning a friend of mine sent me this text so I went and listened to the song. I hope it blesses your day likes it's already blessed mine. I looked up some verses that goes hand in hand with this. We all have weak moments right? I've had more than a few lately but I know I'm only growing stronger from them. 

2 Corithians 12:9-10 Each time he said,  “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”  So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.  That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.  

Instagram Inspiration

A Great Friend of mine posted this yesterday. Definitely felt some conviction after reading it. BNspired not to try to force things in your life. This includes friendships, relationships, trying to fit in, etc.. I'm learning this myself. If things don't happen naturally then maybe it's not something you need at the time. We all can strive to learn to be more patient with ourselves. Everybody won't be truly for you & that's fine. When you know your value, you don't have to beg people to like you, be your mate, to spend time with you, or to love you. Long as you're confident in who you are, you'll be fine.