The Rock Won’t Move

I would have to say "My Hope is Built on Nothing Less" by Edward Mote is my favorite hymn of all time. Many contemporary Christian songs are derived from its lyrics and they speak so powerfully to my soul. Today I heard a new song, “The Rock Won’t Move” by Vertical Church Band, and was literally brought to tears. The pastor spoke on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20) and specifically focused on verse 15: “… and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace” (ESV). Peace. In the recent year I have found myself at many crossroads where I had to choose to continue on as things were or place the situation in God’s hands. I’ve previously talked about my struggle with fear and anxiety but through continuously making an effort to trust in the Lord’s promises and rely on His grace I have made strides.  Today I found myself overwhelmed by the sermon and lyrics of the song because I was able to really visualize the faithfulness of God and it was so beautiful to me. The recent months have been filled with some of the sweetest and hardest moments of my life – mountaintops and valleys. Through them all, whether I realized it at first or not, the Lord was there. While my faith may have shifted, the Rock didn’t move. As I reflected on how the Lord revealed Himself to me in such a personal, intimate way I was filled with joy, peace, and even more faith to put my trust in Him alone.

Being 24 something that I’ve really been seeking the Lord on is what’s next for me – I feel like my mind races a mile a minute trying to figure it all out! Today I was encouraged as I was reminded that the Lord has gone before me and as long as I walk with Him my future is secure. With so much uncertainty surrounding me it’s really easy to become anxious but I can choose to remember that God is steadfast and can be trusted. Sisters, whatever challenges you’re facing, whatever is causing you doubt or stress, choose to pray and give it to the Lord – fully. In the midst of everything we have a reason to rejoice because of the beautiful love that was shown to us on the cross – because of His sacrifice we have hope.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.“ – Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. – John 14:27 ESV

Here’s to Starting.

I know that this post may seem a little late into the new year but honestly the phrase “better late than never” holds so much truth and significance in my life right now. For as long as I can remember I’ve allowed fear to prevent me from boldly approaching life.  Back in 2009 when God clearly spoke to me about this ministry I had my doubts, but I gradually started to pray and visualize what it would look like.  As Fearlessly Chique began to come together, Satan also started working harder to continue to hold me captive in this area.  As one year ends and another begins I always find myself in a state of reflection – fear has been a recurring theme annually that I’ve begged God to rid me of. In December while home for Christmas break I started reading Start. by Jon Acuff. Only a few pages in I was overwhelmed by the realization that in every instance that I struggled with fear it wasn’t rooted in God’s inability to come through but in my failure to trust in Him.  This is such a basic truth that I’ve read, heard, written, sang, and prayed about for so long but it fell afresh on me and I feel encouraged! The moment we believe something for ourselves is when it becomes real and change happens. I’ve approached 2014 praying that I will hold on to these simple truths as I face the unknown:

1) God has and will always be faithful: I can look back and see His marvelous works in my life and be confident that He’s already gone before me for all my days.

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations; – Deuteronomy 7:9

2) God’s grace is sufficient. Period: No matter how many times I may fail God’s hand is outstretched even if I’m underserving. I shouldn’t rob God of the grace He’s freely given to me but allow it to soften my heart and give me a greater love for Him and desire to serve Him.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. – 2 Corinthians 12:9

3) It’s all about starting: I refuse to allow another crippling “year of fear” engulf every area of my life and prevent me from receiving the blessings the Lord has in store.

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? – Psalm 27:1

Here I sit in 2014 (5 years later) starting again on this journey of ministry that has caused me a great deal of fear and anxiety – since Satan has been trying so hard to keep me from it I believe that one of the greatest blessings I will receive in this lifetime will stem from it. I’m confident that if I strive to honor the Lord with this ministry His word will not be returned void and He’ll be glorified.

For those who may be reading that loved, encouraged, and prayed for Fearlessly Chique THANK YOU for your support.