Chosen for such a time as this!

Special thanks to all those who reached out to check on me. May you also be surrounded by those who genuinely love and care about you (Amen).

So this past weekend was eventful for me. Saturday, 24th September was my dearest mum’s birthday. I usually don’t do anything special on this day except of course to remember her.

I knew this year would be extra special when a dear friend and mentor, Detola Amure of Super Working Mum announced that the Empowering Mothers Conference would be on the same date. The theme for the conference was ‘Chosen for such a time as this’.  I was super excited and expectant about this event, not just as a member of the planning committee but also as a delegate. I was expectant to receive from the Most High. 

The conference was a great success, all glory to God Almighty!!! I am still buzzing from this amazing experience and wanted to share my top 4 lessons with you:

1. Don’t shy away from your calling.

If you’re willing to be used by God, He will open doors for you and create the right opportunities for you. I was one of the exhibitors on the day and my plan was to only exhibit some of the products from my gift sourcing business (AHFOG Creations).  I was concerned about displaying my book ‘Letters of Hope’ as I thought it wouldn’t be the appropriate place to share the message and perhaps people might be put off with the idea of mixing bereavement support material with other items on display. Anyway I kept getting a nudge to take copies of my book with me. I was reluctant to do so but finally decided to take them along, however I had planned to hide them under the table until all other products were sold and then I would bring them out.  Somehow, when I got to the venue, I felt at peace and I went ahead to display my books along with my other products.

To my surprise, Letters of Hope was actually the best selling product on the day. A lot of people were interested. In fact, there was a lady who said she had been looking for the ideal gift for a friend who had recently lost a loved one and she felt this was it. 

I am simply amazed by what God can do through each and every single one of us, when we yield to His leading. I am glad I eventually got over my ‘shyness’ with showcasing Letters of Hope and I could be a blessing to a number of people.

God reminded me on the day that He has blessed me with different gifts and talents but He also has a special calling for me, there is a specific ‘nation’ He has called me to serve. My gifts and talents will help me in fulfilling my purpose BUT they are separate from my calling. I must not shy away from the mission He has assigned to me. I must use all He has placed inside of me for His glory.

“You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” ‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭5:14-16‬ ‭HCSB‬‬

2. Surround yourself with the right company; friends and mentors that will support you in your journey.

There will be seasons in your life when you will run out of steam, because life gets busy, these people will push you along, they will champion your cause, encouraging you all the way. They will look out for you and cheer you on. Your calling is not about you, it is bigger than you, so God will equip you, BUT he will also send destiny helpers your way, look out for them. Be obedient and have a humble spirit. I hadn’t actually planned to exhibit but my dear friend hosting the conference encouraged me to do so, and I am so glad I listened. I also had another friend exhibiting on the day, it was great to have someone on the same journey and we could support each other in preparing for our ‘maiden’ exhibit. 

“Some relationships have to go, some relationships you have to find – destiny helpers” – Laura Jeyibo

3. Serving others is your training ground!

In volunteering to help others to fulfill their own purpose, you are bound to learn lessons for your own journey. You will surely grow in your own walk and God will elevate you at His appointed time. Enough said about this 🙂

4. Your story is not unique

Your pain and journey is not totally unique, there are others who have experienced the same challenges and difficulties in life. There is a specific ‘nation’ that God has called you to serve, to reach out to and support. Your story will make sense to them, God will connect you with them when the time comes.    

“Your pain is not going to be a waste. God can use your pain for His glory if you allow him. Your past is part of your purpose, don’t discount your past , it is part of what makes you special” – Detola Amure

I’ll leave you with my favourite quote from the event:

“When you find what you’re meant to do, you’ll sense God’s pleasure” – Fiona Jones.

I definitely sensed God’s presence AND pleasure on Saturday :-). My prayer is that you will sense God’s pleasure in your own circle of influence too, no matter the size, or environment – perhaps it’s in your home. 

Have a fantastic week,

#BeEncouraged