Shoes to Fill…A Very Tall Order

What shoes do you wear?

What are you called to do?

The other day my mom and I were talking about “vocation” and “calling”.
When I think of the word “vocation” I think of a plumber, nurse or a police.
And, when I think of the word “calling” I think of a missionary, a pastor or layperson.
What are you thoughts?
I’m trying to ask thought-provoking questions simply to see what others think.
This photo was taken a few months ago when I was doing my early spring cleaning and found these shoes under the bed. I know spring was just last week but I started early…call me a nerd (hehehe). Well, these shoes were left under the bed back in May of last year when my late sister was visiting us for 2 weeks and she realized she could not fit them in her luggage because she had just way too much stuff to take back home (this tells you I literally do not look under the bed often). So, she asked me to mail them after she left because they were her favorites shoes and were very comfortable and pretty. I never did but she never asked for them again either. Go figure.

I could never fill in my sisters shoes. She did so much! Her friend and co-worker text me about a week ago and I was reminded that many loved her and what she stood up for. I know she had a calling and it is evident by the responses of all those that loved her for they continue to send me quick text messages to let me know what a huge impact my sister has left in their lives. She loved God and loved people!

I’m sure you have a legacy you are working on to leave for your friends and family. But again I ask, “what is your calling?” What are you doing to fulfill your calling? We are conditioned to go to school and work on getting a degree to get a career and to work until retirement. At least that’s how I was taught growing up in public schools. But what is truly your “calling” in your life? Are you living out what God has called you to do? Jeremiah 29:11 say’s “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” And, I love the following scripture by Paul in Ephesians 4:1, “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Paul is exhorting us to live a life worthy of the calling in which you have received. We have received a calling and now what do we do with it?

It’s March and I’m sure you are tired of going to the gym and eating healthy…maybe or maybe not??? I urge you to go to your list of things to do, your resolution list, your short-term or long-term goals and review, revise and rewrite if you have to. Stay on track and update what needs to be updated. God is a god of mercy and we have every waking day to start all over. Go and do what you are called to do!

Be encouraged! Be inspired! And, be you! God called you! Don’t delay! Get going!!!

What shoes are you wearing?

I hope this message has inspired you as it has me!

Godspeed,

Cindy

 

Do you EVER feel this way?

I have my good days and bad days but oh watch out when I feel this way (see picture). We are moving faster, rushing through meals and traffic as if the world is coming to an end. We know it is…but is your spiritual life like this too? I feel as though there are times where I skim through scripture just to get to the point. Don’t you? Or am I the only one here…help me out! This week I started attending my grief share class at a local church and it was amazing! I received my workbook and realized on Wednesday that I had to read through the next section and answer some questions. As I was reading and answering the questions in the workbook, I felt that I needed to slow down and really take my time reading and absorbing all that was written because I didn’t want to rush through my grieving period. I was taken back by how much the scriptures meant to me now much more than ever before. Have you ever felt that way? I hope so….that is the H.S. (Holy Spirit) prompting! Don’t you love it? Ok, so here’s my challenge during Lent: I am going to bask and absorb more of what scripture is telling me more so than ever before because even though we live in a crazy fast paced world, reading scriptures does not have to be that way. Are you in? Try it! You won’t regret it. In fact, you will feel more peace and joy. I’m thankful for these times of reflection.

Happy International Women’s Day and Godspeed~

Cindy

Note: Picture was taken in New York City this past January on our way to my sister’s graduation ceremony where the school was paying tribute to her accomplishments. And, this little man is my nephew who has an amazing personality and already displays love for God and people!

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

The word “boundaries” is what I think of when I read Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote.

Growing up a timid and shy girl I had a few bullies tell me awful things. I knew better and should have said something but kept to myself most of the time. As I grew older I became outspoken and created boundaries. I learned that speaking up would keep me safe but I didn’t do it often enough. I still struggle with speaking out at times but for the most part I won’t let anyone make me feel inferior without my consent. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13).

What are some things you struggle with that keeps you from moving forward? Do you create boundaries?

Know that you were created for a bigger and greater purpose. How do you overcome from others making you feel inferior?

Scripture, prayer, quiet time and by speaking up are just a few I’ve come up with that helps me conquer all of my fears. They give you courage, strength, wisdom and knowledge.

Reading bible verses can inspire you and give you strength. Prayer time alone with the Father allows you time to talk and listen to what God is telling you. Quiet time gives you energy, peace and serenity. The ability to speak up gives you confidence and builds character.

I encourage you to create boundaries and not feel inferior. I encourage you to seek ways to help you to be strong and stay confident. You were chosen for such a time as this to do big and mighty things.

Psalm 139:13-14 says, “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. ¹⁴ I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Be enCouraged and create boundaries.

Godspeed,

Cindy