I have been writing with Five Minute Friday community for nearly two years as they celebrate their five year anniversary.
I can say that I have learned a lot and met many wonderful online friends over these years. Networking, learning and growing in my niche has eased my frustration over the comparison trap I sometimes get stuck in as a blogger, and has helped me to focus more on why I write.
Writing because of a calling to share faith has been a huge step in my life these few years. I use to feel hurt over the lack of followers, especially since not many friends and family seem to not be on board. But the Lord didn’t call me to please loved or liked ones, but to please Him and grow faith in myself, steady my walk, to share the kingdom, and to glorify Him.
On this anniversary of the Five Minute Friday, I would like to share five verses that have held me steady this year despite much anxiety, depression, and living in the unknown. These words from Scripture have kept me grounded no matter the oppression thrown at me, the angst of life that has tried to push me down, and the darkness of mental illness that sometimes likes to creep in when I forget to hold my hand in its face.
John 14:27 NIV
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
Philippians 4:13 NIV
I can do all this through him who gives me strength
Sometimes I think about Paul’s writing a lot. When he tells the Corinthians that the Lord is making all things new, I think that I am being made new as well. Not just at the Baptism of the Spirit, or the acceptance of Christ, but each morning when I arise, I am fresh and new. I have a new beginning in the morning light to walk afresh in faith and with the Lord. No matter the previous day, I am starting anew to glorify the Lord, to make Him known, and to be a light for my fellow man. I am a new creation despite my sin. I am made new each day despite my failings and anxious heart. I can start over no matter the cost, because my life was paid in full at the cross.
The Lord remains faithful always, not just for two years, five years, or even a life time. He is sovereign and is faithful across all places and all times. May we all do well to glorify Him with our words and our lives.
He is sovereign and is faithful across all places and all times. Click To TweetI leave you with one extra verse. This one has been on my heart this past week as I have made big moves and have had to rely on my faith all the more. Transitions are not easy no matter how exciting they present themselves. These words have anchored me and I will continue to press them upon my heart.
Numbers 6:24-26 NIV
“‘“The Lord bless you
and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you
and give you peace.”’
Beautiful verses of faith! I love your use of the prompt word. I wish I had first thought of five verses and not the children’s song “five little Indians” 😄
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I too, have felt the disappointment of no comments or followers. Thank you for the reminder that we’re not to be focused on that but rather to glorifying God! These verses are great encouragement. Thank you for sharing them and ma God bless you in the midst of of your big moves.
Phillipians 4:13 was the first verse I ever learned by heart. It has always been special to me. I have always struggled with wanting to be liked and easily get discouraged by the lack of followers. Your post was exactly what I needed to read today. Thank you.