“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:11-13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Those who know me know that I’m as transparent as they come. Often, labeling myself an open book. For those who don’t, allow this to be your introduction. I am the granddaughter of an ordained Pastor Emeritus. Because of my upbringing, I have a very strong foundation that is built on the Word of God. That’s not to say that I’m a “holy roller,” because I’m far from having it all together or getting it all right. It just means that in times of trouble/trial/storm, I know where my help comes from.

Well, today is one of those days where I have to encourage and minister to MYSELF. I’m just tired! As women, I know we can all relate to that phrase. I’m tired of struggle, I’m tired of being angry, hurt, sad and disappointed. And before you think this is some type of “woe is me” piece, I can assure you that it’s not. It’s about admitting things that we keep inside, hidden from the world. We put on these brave, strong faces everyday, as not to appear weak. We ACT like we have it all together, but sometimes, we’re silently falling apart, fighting battles no one knows about.

troubled

One minute, I was so happy, praising God for all the opportunities that’s starting to come my way, and for where I am in life. The next, I’m doing this month’s budget and ready to scream. I felt so much stress on my ride home, that I was compelled to share it before I imploded. Why? Because I know that there’s other women out there, just like me. We deal with the demands of this world, our jobs, families and friends, giving everything away until we’re DEPLETED. It’s exhausting, and again I say, “I’m tired!”

Because of my faith, I know that GREATER is coming, “trouble don’t last always” and all those other, annoying affirmations we’ve heard our entire lives, but roll our eyes at when we’re going through. But as much as I don’t want to hear it, I know that it’s true. The Lord has gotten me through far worse, and I’m still standing. I live to fight another day. So, if you’re like me, and needed an EXTRA reminder of that today, I’ll leave you with this: let it out when you have to, cry when you need to, get through it, or get over it. He NEVER said it would be easy. He promised it would be worth it. “Let not your heart be troubled!” Be encouraged!

 

READ: AIN’T I A WOMAN

LaMia Ashley
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