He's Intentional, Are We?

One of my favorite songs right now is Intentional by Travis Greene. By definition, intentional means "done on purpose; deliberate". The song repeats "all things are working for my good, cause He's intentional, never failing". God is never failing and has worked all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. God yearns for all His creation to become His children. He wants us to believe in His son Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again to be with Him. This is the biggest gift God offers us, but it doesn't stop there. He is intentional in our daily lives and working on our behalf for His glory. We don't have to worry or fear our circumstances because God is with us through the Holy Spirit living in us. God's intentionality should give us peace to keep going.

On this Good Friday I ask you to reflect on how God's intentionality has changed your life. Reflect on personal, real life examples of God's working on your behalf. Realize that because of Him sending His son you have hope of a future with Him. Thank Him you do not have to be alone on this journey because you have the Holy Spirit inside you.

Let's take it another step. Are we following God's lead with being intentional to other people in our lives? Do we show others the love and hope we find in Christ? Intentionality can be hard and usually takes us out of our comfort zones. In order to be intentional we need to build relationships not just connections. To me, connections can be surface level only. True relationships require a level of intentionality and have the ability to make you vulnerable.

Think about the people God has put in your life. How can you be intentional about sharing the hope that you have? What relationships can you grow for the glory of God? Find where God is already working and join in. God wants us to be intentional with His message. Will you?

In Christ,
Alissa

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 NIV

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:15 NIV 

On The Other Side of Comfort

Oh the joys of our comfort zone! It's where we feel most content and at ease. It's where we dwell and pretty much know what to expect. Comfort zones aren't perfect but they are familiar. The familiarity urges us to stay in that place. We know we can do better but are scared to take a risk on a new adventure. Ultimately comfort zones keep us stagnant.

I had the opportunity to speak at the R.E.A.L - Raising Extraordinarily Amazing Ladies Forum at New Manchester High School last Wednesday. If I had not stepped outside my comfort zone by contacting the speaker coordinator the blessing from that experience would not have been realized. Any other time I probably would have waited and missed out on the opportunity. I didn't know if I would be selected but I knew I had to at least reach out.

The event was a clear answer to my quiet time with God. I had no idea how many people would attend until I showed up. Imagine my surprise when the entire cafeteria was packed with approximately 300 women and girls. It was definitely a God honoring time that uplifted, inspired, and empowered everyone in attendance including me. I'm continually grateful for that opportunity.

We all have to step outside our comfort zones and follow God in obedience based on what He tells us to do. Even if you do not see the big picture follow Him in the one step He has shown you so far. Do your part and you will be pleasantly surprised how the details unfold without you having to "take things into your own hands". Instead, allow His hand to lead you.

I'm currently learning to take risks for the cause of Christ. I hope you do the same. Trust and believe He is with you every step of the way. Put feet to your faith which requires you to step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and work hard. The most amazing things happen on the other side of comfort. God will meet you there and blow your mind based on your obedience.

We can change the world according to our obedience. Now join me on the other side of comfort!

In Christ,
Alissa

R.E.A.L. Forum on March 2, 2016

"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 straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV