Bloom Where You Are Planted
It’s no secret that life happens. We don’t get to choose what that “happening” may look like or decide the cards that are dealt, but it is up to us on how we handle it…
Do you shrink in the face of adversity? Do you complain your way through stressful circumstances? Does hardship and difficulty make you feel defeated? Well, because we are human, I would say that at some point or another our natural response would be to display one or more of the aforementioned behaviors, but what really matters here is how long you allow that to play out.
Trials and tribulations are inevitable and though unfavorable most times, it is the catalyst for developing growth, perseverance, strength and a greater resolve. Without hardships, we remain stagnant in life; therefore, I believe this is one of the main reasons why God permits certain troubles to come our way. Think about it, who grows in a place of comfort? If properly yielded, adversity and affliction can be amazing stepping stones to becoming the best version of yourself.
God is very intentional and He wastes nothing, so wherever He plants you, I encourage you to bloom into something beautiful. Of course this is easier said than done, but that is why it is important to ask God to help you through. Yesterday, Pastor Keith Battle of Zion Church preached a sermon entitled “Don’t Stop Praying!” The message was phenomenal, but one point in particular that resonated with me was when Pastor Battle mentioned that praying is not always about receiving the miracle or the manifestation, but rather it being more of a sustaining moment. When we are faced with these hard trials and we don’t know how we are going to make it, we can pray for God to see us through; to give us the strength and ability to push through our circumstances until He turns it around. This is where we bloom; this is where true maturation takes place.
It is for this reason, I urge you not to give up and by no means, be sure not to give in. If you’re being stretched, permit it! If you’re being crushed, don’t avoid it! I can personally attest to everything I have spoken on thus far. God has completely transformed me in the face of adversity. Was it easy? No, not at all and until God began to change my perspective for His, I sometimes felt like it was quite unfair. But through it all, I can honestly say it has been worth it! I am becoming the woman I believe God had in mind when He created me; however, none of this would have transpired without enduring hardship. I am still blooming and it is my hope that wherever you’re planted, you too will follow the directive to bloom.
P.S. I am currently reading Crushing: God Turns Pressure into Power by T.D. Jakes and it is AH-MAZING! This book is a must read for anyone that has, did and will (because it indeed will occur in life) experience a crushing place.
Thank me later!