By: Areanna Shears | My closest friends and family know that I have always desired to be an actress. Whether on the big stage or the silver screen, I can still envision myself reciting poetic lines across from a charming co-star. One of my dearest role models in the entertainment industry has (and always will be) Jennifer Lopez. Jennifer Lopez (J.LO) is what people in show business like to call a triple threat. A triple threat is someone that has three major talents or skills and does them well. You can play an instrument (1), dance (2), and sing (3). J.LO can sing (1), dance (2), and act (3). This feature for any artist is especially important when it comes to landing complex roles. If a particular project is calling for someone to sing in a musical while dancing to catchy tunes and acting effortlessly, this would be of great resource to the production.
How many times do we find ourselves juggling or attempting to bend and shape to many different characters for the sake of “getting the job done”?? As parents, it can be easier to jump at every beckon and call to not mistake your need for rest as neglect or insensitivity. Wives, know that your identity does not have to come at the expense of meeting someone else’s needs while never seeing your own met. Ladies… Don’t feel bad! I am guilty of it, too. Besides my desired acting career, I have challenged myself to take on as many hats as I can. Using my gifts, or talents had become a persona for me. It felt good to be needed. But how many of us know that “being used” can get you in trouble?
In Colossians, the author pens a gentle reminder that should nudge us into submission. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
I found this especially hard when I began to feel an urgency to use each of my gifts, and talents, around the same time. I would write press releases for my church community, administer the financial duties, assist with professional development in my small business, be present at my regular 9-to-5 job while singing on the praise and worship team. And this was just to name a few. It took me four years of servanthood to understand the present help I always had available in times of “trouble” — the triune God. God, the Father, my counselor, my rearguard, my fortress, and shield was always available to shield me from mental woes and unnecessary hardships. Jesus, the Son of God, the intercessor, and friend, who died so that I could freely cast my cares before the throne of God, has never left my side. Jesus’ blemish-less life is a shining example of what it means to live and operate in ministry with no breaks while doing so without engaging in sin. And the Holy Spirit, the comforter, the wisdom, the mighty, the knowledge, the fear of the Lord, is always a reminder to lean into the presence of God first and foremost. Unfortunately, even now, I must remember that God, in His fullness, offers peace, and love, and grace, and joy, and goodness, and conviction, and power, and abundance. Even in times of “trouble”.
Since the beginning of time, we have been created with the triple threat on the inside of us. We were created in the image of the triple threat–the Holy God–and every single day we must remember that we have a never-ending resource available at any given moment. When we feel that pulling and pressing, it is important to ask, “God, is this from you?” And then rest in knowing that no matter the answer, “God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him. And they are the ones God has chosen for his purpose..”
Today’s Truth:
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Colossians 3:23
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
Isaiah 11:2-3
“The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.”
Today’s Prayer:
“Lord God, I give you permission to steward my life. When you take people away and change my surroundings and appoint me to work in different areas, I understand that I am lending myself to your work and your will.
You are the author of my life and the creator of time. I am not operating on a biological clock, but your demand and schedule.
You have set me as a city on a hill and I bless you for entrusting your plan with me. Allow me to be a blessing to someone. A beacon of light giving hope to the hopeless and love to the loveless today. I bless you for keeping me and guiding me. My mind is safe with you. My heart is safe with you. My future is safe with you. You know the plans you have for me. And I trust them. My life is better with you as my Lord and Saviour.
Remind me in the hard times, and encourage me in the low times. Send your ministering angels to my side. Show me your love in a mighty way this week and give me a heart like yours–immovable and indestructible by way of your affirming word.
You are God and God alone. I, your warrior, am honored to serve you.
In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Today’s Challenge/Response:
What can you choose to see with a new perspective?
Take this week to write down three (3) areas of opportunity to make God big in your life or the life of someone else and to give God the glory.
Pray for someone you do not get along with.
What do they need assistance with?
Today’s Resource:
Listen to:
Confident (LIVE) – Steffany Gretzinger & Bobby Strand
Meet Today’s Writer: “My name is Areanna Shears and I am created to spread joy! As a licensed Massage Therapist and Professional Development Specialist, it is my job to help others reach a place of peace and ease professionally, physically, and spiritually. Born and raised in Tchula, MS, I have cultivated the fine art of Country Girl City Living! With no children (yet), and husband on the way (when he finds me), I am using my time wisely to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ at Agape Time Ministries in Florissant, MO; where I assist on the Ministerial, Financial, and Worship Arts teams. I enjoy writing, reading, acting and podcasting with my best friend and co-host on the Agape Love Show: A Dialogue Amongst Friends — found on all media platforms! I look forward to diving into the Word of God through inspiration and love together!” Areanna invites you to connect with her on Facebook.
