My church, Concord Church in Dallas, is in the midst of a 21 day Daniel Fast. Each morning at 6:00am our pastor goes live so that we can all come together in prayer. The prayer is focused on a different topic each morning. Today's topic was, "I Am Accepted". Even as I'm sitting here now typing this post I can't help the tears that are flowing from my eyes. My last thoughts before bed last night were about how I just feel a bit isolated and rejected, and hoping that the situation won't be one where I'll continue to feel like this. This is a topic that I have struggled with my whole life. That longing to be accepted. That longing to be included. That longing to just "fit in". When I was younger I didn't know or understand that as a Christian we are called to be different, and that as a result of this it will cause us to experience a lot of rejection. I never fit in with the popular crowd. One thing I'm proud of is that even in my desires to fit in growing up, I never was the type of person to fall victim to peer pressure. If I wanted to participate in something I did. If I didn't want to participate I didn't. Let me tell you, if you are someone like me who doesn't naturally fit in with others social media can be your worst enemy. You will see those you love and care about doing things, going places and hanging out and finding yourself wondering where was my invite? Try to limit your social media intake (I know, ironic coming from someone who has a social media platform). You've got to feed yourself something that will grow your soul so you don't get caught up in the hype. I've been pretty stressed out lately and finding that the only person I can talk to that truly understands me and is always there is the Lord. After the long rough day I had yesterday I really needed some encouragement. To wake up and hear Pastor Carter's message on how God accepts us was right on time. I'm so glad that He has made me unique. I'm so glad that even when it seems that others reject me that He accepts me. I have a heart for those who feel the way that I have felt. I pray that God gives me the ability to minister to those who may have feelings of isolation and rejection. I thank God that not everyday is like that. We go through ups and downs. It's just a bad week, not a bad life. I'm including a link to Pastor Carter's prayer. I hope that it blesses you like it did me.
Photo Source: http://blkwomenart.com/post/43944644027/girls-prayer-by-tc-chiu