A Moment That Changed Everything

A moment that changed everything…

It could be a phone call that flipped your life upside down. Maybe it’s a mistake that crumbled your confidence. Tragically, could it be an innocence unjustly ripped away? Or perhaps a heartbreak that tore you to pieces.  Tainted by the world and human nature, pain weaves its way into our lives. As frustration, confusion, and depression seep into our flesh, it’s easy to give up. It’s easy to be overcome by emotions. It’s easy to resort to self-destructive behavior. As the world tells us to stay strong and move on, we are left still broken and bruised. It is in these very moments that we must make a choice. Do we go through the motions and try to cope on our own, or do we wholly surrender to Christ?

The Truth: Freedom is found in a surrender [To Christ.]

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

As we begin to let go of our pain and ask God for help, He sustains us. By surrendering to God, we are releasing our burdens. Although pain may not always be erased immediately, God will bring comfort and peace in even the most difficult struggles. Specifically in my life, I am so grateful that God has been there to comfort me in my weakness.  No matter the situation, Christ is there with open arms just waiting for you to surrender.

The Truth: Healing is a process.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Often times, many look over the fact that healing doesn’t always happen immediately. Sometimes, God uses these difficult struggles in our lives as growth periods, where we can learn to rely more on Him. Although it may not be easy, God promises to bring peace, strength, and comfort. As we face these trials, it is essential to hold tight to God, and remember He will make everything beautiful in His time.

The Truth: There is beauty in your scars.

More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope. Romans 5:3-4

Let’s be real, nobody likes going through difficult times. Nevertheless, these times are critical in growing our faith. As we draw nearer to Christ in our times of trouble, His strength becomes more prominent in our lives. Furthermore, our scars become a testimony to who God is. Although it’s not easy, surrendering our struggles to Christ precedes renewal, healing, peace, and redemption.

Life is messy. Sometimes, we are burdened with struggles that have the potential to overtake us. Although it may be natural to try and hide in your weakness or cope on your own, I encourage you surrender to Christ. He is willing to carry your burdens and walk you through this difficult time; you simply must surrender to Him. 

Until next time,

-Tamara

Impact

Hearing the tragic news regarding three late fellow graduates within the matter of only a few months has challenged me to reevaluate my perspective. I wrote this poem as a personal reminder to cherish my time of impact on this earth. Furthermore, I extend my prayers to each family member and friend of these individuals. 

In an instant, the essence of time is lost.

As we slip away from what we call home,

Our eternity, our true future, is left to the world unknown.

Before being given a new set of eyes,

The world seems so big,

And our tomorrow is left disguised.

Blind to the beauty, the truth, and the pain,

It seems as though we pass through life unaware of the plain.

With an aching soul we plea for a chance to rewind,

But what was right in front of us is now left behind.

Each moment is so dear, and every choice matters.

But none of this seems clear until life begins to shatter.

Awaken my soul, Oh God,

Lift up my eyes.

Help me to see clearly,

and to cherish this world you love so dearly.

-Tamara

More than a box of chocolates and a dozen roses....

More than a box of chocolates and a dozen roses….

We know the fairytale all too well. We have been taught the things to look for, and until that prince charming comes to sweep you and me off our feet, we wait patiently.

Oh wait, maybe not. Dare I say, perhaps, we may have been going about this “relationship” thing entirely wrong? Granted, social media isn’t doing us any favors in this department. Each and every day, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter privilege us to witness perks of these seemingly “cookie cutter” relationships. It looks good. It looks fun. It seems romantic. And I’m not saying it isn’t. There’s nothing wrong with the sweet parts of a relationship. However, it becomes a problem when that is the goal of a relationship. Furthermore, it becomes a problem when these pictures create an expectation in a relationship.

When it comes down to it, a relationship is a partnership. It’s so easy to get caught in the Disney trap of expecting instant love through locked eyes, or joy from frivolous gifts. In reality, a healthy relationship is a blessing from God meant to encourage and strengthen you daily.

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. ¹⁰ If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Furthermore, relationships are meant to be a reflection of Christ’s great love for us. In a partnership, many characteristics that Jesus exemplified are the glue that holds a couple together.

Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

As the scripture displays, love is about so much more than a box of chocolates and a dozen roses. In fact, I’m pretty sure it wasn't mentioned in there ;). Unlike social media, Disney, and other sources, the Bible sets the stage for a true, uplifting relationship. When we begin to grasp the meaning of Christ’s love, we are more capable of understanding the purpose and beauty of a human relationship.

I encourage you to remind yourself of what a relationship truly entails the next time you come across a seemingly ideal “love” trap. Each and every relationship we have, intimate or not, is a blessing. Instead of drooling over what you “could have,” try to cherish and learn from your relationships. After all, the greatest love any man could ever have has already been given.

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him Psalm 103:11

For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Until next time,

-Tamara

What Are You Rooted In?

What Are You Rooted In?

 

The world is crumbling all around you as the wind begins to shake you, and you are forced to hold tight; hold tight to the ground you so hastily rooted yourself in.  You look towards the sky and begin to wonder, “Is the foundation strong enough? Can I make it through this storm?” Unfortunately, many times we find ourselves to be amidst a storm in our lives before we have even thought to build a solid foundation. Just like it is important for a tree to have strong, deep roots in good soil, it is essential that we choose to root our lives fully in things that will keep us firm in the middle of a crisis.

The truth: What you choose to root yourself in (the soil) is the first step in determining your strength amidst a storm.

¹¹ For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:11

The Rock: His works are perfect, and the way he works is fair and just; A God you can depend upon, no exceptions, a straight-arrow God. His messed-up, mixed-up children, his non-children, throw mud at him but none of it sticks. Deuteronomy 32:4 MSG

Continuously throughout the Bible, Christ is referred to as “The Rock,” and “Cornerstone.” These words are simply illustrations of the strength and stability that God possesses, and signify what He can provide us with when we build our foundation in Him. When we make the choice to surrender our lives to Christ, He is the Rock we can lean on in the midst of even the strongest storm.

The truth: The things you choose to surround yourself with have the power to nourish or deteriorate your foundation.

Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. 2 Peter 3:17

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17

As these verses describe, the people you choose to allow into your life can either strengthen you, or lead you astray. It is essential that we are careful with what and who we allow into our lives, as it will spill into many other areas; thus building us up, or tearing us down.

The truth: A solid foundation paired with a healthy/encouraging environment will precede stability in the challenges/storms ahead.

The Wise and Foolish Builders

²⁴ “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ²⁵ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. ²⁶ But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ²⁷ The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” Matthew 7:24-27

Just as the wise man in the story had to be intentional about building his house on a firm foundation, we must also be intentional about where and what we root our lives in. Are you rooted in things that strengthen and encourage you, or are you ingrained in destructive things that tear you down?

Until next time,

-Tamara

Why I Choose Purity

Why I Choose Purity

Often times, I get all sorts of remarks regarding the ring I wear on my left hand. No, I’m not engaged. No, I’m not married. And NO, I do NOT think I’m married to Jesus. As ridiculous as that sounds, I hear it all too often. Rather, the ring I wear is an outward symbol of a decision I made years ago. In a world filled with contaminates that pry their way into the minds of any vulnerable being; telling us we are undesirable, making us question truth, it is essential to choose purity. Now don’t get me wrong, sheltering oneself from the world entirely is unnecessary. In fact, it’s unhealthy. However, choosing a lifestyle of purity protects your heart, and protects your mind from contaminates.

The truth: Purity is a deliberate decision to abstain from any situation that compromises your faith.

Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Colossians 3:5

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

A lifestyle of purity is so much more than just “not having sex before marriage.” Purity boils down to a resistance to anything unholy. Whether it be a movie that it infects your mind with lustful thoughts, or a party that prompts you to make decisions you may regret, abstaining from these situations is key. Choosing to avoid situations where your faith may be compromised will prevent you from the regret, the pain, and the emotional baggage associated with these decisions.

The truth: When you give yourself away, you’re giving more than that moment. You’re giving your life.

As David states in Psalms, “I know how bad I’ve been; my sins are staring me down.” Psalm 51:3 MSG

In marriage, a man becomes one flesh with a woman—no longer two individuals, but forming a new unity. Mark 10:8 MSG

Each decision you make in life has consequences, whether they be good or bad. Everything you choose to let into your life WILL affect you. You can’t un-see, you can’t un-hear, and you can’t undo. Thus it is essential we are extremely careful when it comes to the things, and the people we allow into our lives.

When it comes to sex, the act is biblically described as “two becoming one.” I heard a very insightful sermon on this a few years ago, and learned that sex is so much deeper than a physical connection. It is a spiritual joining. In other words, for the rest of your life you are to be connected emotionally and spiritually to your partner. That’s why it is so important to choose purity. When sex occurs outside of marriage, the covenant is not there, yet a spiritual attachment has been created. Thus, if the relationship/hook-up is to end, the spiritual baggage of the partner prevails.

The truth: Purity does not bind you, but frees you.

Flee from evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22

So the Lord has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight. Psalm 18:24

Making the choice to only allow pure and holy things in your life saves you from the emotional and spiritual toll impure decisions can take on you. Rather than a heart filled with regret, pain, fear, and strife, choosing purity allows us to feel joy and peace.

DISCLAIMER: Purity is a decision that can be made at any time, and God is more than willing to make you new (1 John 1:9.) However, this post was created in hopes that it will help readers deepen their understanding of purity, and maybe even prevent some future trials.

Until next time,

-Tamara

Why me?

 

Ever have the disheartening question creep into your mind, “Why was I put on this earth?” Unfortunately, this question is far too common. Essentially, what this destructive thought boils down to is “What is my purpose? What am I living for? Why me.” When I was younger, I struggled to find my purpose. Like any human, I wanted to know what my significance as a young teenage girl was in this world. With all the talent, all the beauty, and all the intellect in this world, what possessed God to create me? Despite these questions I had, I held close to a truth: If God didn't have a purpose in me being here on earth, I wouldn't be here! As I've deepened my understanding of God and His word, I have begun scratching the surface of His deep love for each and every person, and the unique purpose He places on every single individual’s life.  

The truth: You have the power to impact the lives of specific people.

Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit—you choose. Proverbs 18:21 (MSG)

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

 Think about all the people you encounter every day. The words you say and the actions you take will promote something, one way or another. There’s a reason you were created the way you were, and your response to the situation you’ve been given will have a direct impact on the lives of people you encounter. In some cases, this could mean the difference between eternal life and death.

The truth: You were created with definitive purpose founded in God’s perfect plan.

 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

Before you were born, God had a plan for your life. He loved you enough to give you the breath of life, and He died so that you could live. He instilled great potential in you, and left you with a simple choice: Follow Him. As stated earlier, if God did not have a purpose in you being here on earth, you would not be here in the first place!

The truth: Your purpose is not to be fulfilled through your own strength.

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.^[a] 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you^[b] free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. ³ For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin,^[c] he condemned sin in the flesh, ⁴ in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. ⁵ For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. ⁶ For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:1-6

I think one of the main misconceptions we have is that we must be capable of achieving God’s plan for our lives through our own abilities. Honestly, if that were true I wouldn’t even be writing this. God created us with specific talents, and a specific purpose. However, we must trust in Him to fully carry out this purpose.

In closing,

Even though it may feel like you are just another person, just another face in the crowd—remember your Creator! God made you on purpose for a purpose! He died so that you could live. Finally, He leads us. God gives us purpose with the understanding that we will need Him to fulfill it. Trust in Him, and He will be your strength!

Until next time,

-Tamara

An Ugly Shade of Green

An Ugly Shade of Green

Whether it be a simple moment of anger, or a relentless tick of irritation, we all have experienced jealousy at some point. It wells up within us, and has the potential to consume our thoughts, our attitude, and even our actions. As someone who has fallen into the trap of jealousy, I have discovered the pain, the anger, and the unnecessary baggage it can cause. It’s interesting, isn’t it, how we feel we must hold tight to the very thing that can destroy us? Letting go of this jealousy can be tough. However, I would argue that letting go is not only freeing, but can change an entire outlook of other people.

The Truth: Jealousy distorts reality.

Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy? Proverbs 27:4

When jealousy becomes a prominent factor in life, it’s easy to put others on a pedestal. The flaws of that person seem to wither away, and suddenly they have reached perfection. Or maybe you’re the opposite; you think, “Wow, my life is terrible because I’m not like them/I don’t have what they have.” I mean honestly, how ridiculous does this all sound? But yet we say things like this anyway. When we allow jealousy to be a part of our life, it can consume us, it can confuse us, and it can abuse us!  

The Truth: Jealousy fuels anger.

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:16

When jealousy has a hold on your life, a single message; a single word can put you over the edge. The happier they are, the angrier you get. At this stage, it’s safe to say jealousy has gotten out of hand in your life. As easy as it is to become bitter towards a person because you don’t have “what they have,” we must be intentional about remembering our blessings and knowing they aren’t perfect either.

The Truth: Letting go of jealousy changes everything.

A heart of peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30

Whether it be your attitude, your outlook, or your self-confidence, letting go opens a door to a whole new view. Instead of being dragged down by comparing yourself to others, you are now free to enjoy the blessings in your life. As crazy as this may sound, you may even be able to rejoice in others’ blessings as well. From my personal experiences, I have found great joy, peace, and gratefulness from letting go of jealousy. Sure, it’s hard to let go, but it’s completely worth it.

Things to pray for overcoming jealousy:

·         God, I surrender. James 4:10

·         God, show me truth. John 8:22

·         God, give me faith in you to overcome this.  1 John 5:4

Until next time,

-Tamara