At the end of 2017 I faced a major crisis that involved a church leader. That thang had me spiraling for a while. I’m still a little light-headed. I didn’t realize how so many of my beliefs about life and myself were attached to my religious beliefs.

Some of the beliefs that I was holding on to weren’t even biblical. They were ideas and concepts that had been taught to me or ones that I had been exposed to that I just accepted as fact. When my life and experience didn’t match what I thought was true I almost spiritually flatlined.

The good news is that I am recovering well. I’m focusing on God, His word, His love for me, and my relationship with Him. It’s helping me to find a place of peace and maintain a sure footing.

I’m still in awe of how much my life has changed. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to have my beliefs challenged. I’ve gotten the chance to evaluate what works and what doesn’t. I’ve gotten the chance to reflect on how firm my spiritual foundation is. I’ve gotten a chance to fall in love with God in a much more personal way. I have been able to learn from experience that no matter what the circumstance in life it’s never a good enough excuse to turn my back on God. I have a better understanding of what church is about. It’s not religion. It’s not about being approved by man. It’s not a social club or based on social status. It’s about being the Church and loving God and living out His word in our everyday lives.

While on my journey of hope and healing from domestic violence and emotional trauma this spiritual crisis has definitely been a bump along the way; but I’m in a good place. It was needful. I’m learning more about myself and more about what I do and don’t want. I’m learning more about boundaries and ways to create and maintain them. I’m learning more about honoring and loving others despite differences of opinion and personality. I’m seeing the importance of truly loving God and LIVING life.

Life is too short to live in misery. Stand tall. Walk in strength and power and forgiveness. Trust God and stay focused. Don’t waste time trying to change folks. Let them be. Do you! God’s got you. Allow Him to lead you to your best life yet.

Hope always,

💜Missy