December 23, 2023
author:
Cera Taylor
Is God not speaking, or are you not seeking? The year is coming to an end; both Christmas and New years are just days away. The beginning of a new chapter is about to begin. This is the time I feel ignited to deeply reflect on the year that is passing, whilst preparing for the year that is approaching. The year 2023 is now saying its goodbye; forming itself to become just a memory and a reflection in the rear view mirror. In full preparation mode, I have learned it is better to prayerfully equip myself and seek God. But in order to hear and know that it is from Him, you must seek Him and know His word.
Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:7
poem of the month
A New Season
The days have turned their pages
the seeds now have sprouts
growth, is happening now.
Leave the past where it should remain
New life, requires new ways.
But give your old self grace
those mistakes brought you to today.
Step into new wineskin, and let those old wounds heal
you are on your way to newness, the future is near.
So even with your scars, it’s time to press start
don’t be afraid to show others how gifted you really are.
– Cera Taylor
It’s Time To Seek
This month, I found myself questioning a few things. Why do I react to different things in certain ways? What insecurities have I not surrendered to God and processed through yet? How can I wrap my mind around the fact that the God of the universe loves me, and chose me for such a time as this? How do I put my faith into practice, and continue to live it out daily despite my circumstances? But ultimately, the month of December has been a culmination of processing all the things I went through this year, and wondering “how did I end up here?”
In full transparency, some of that questioning led to self doubt; and wondering how could Jesus truly sacrifice Himself for me. Spiraling down that staircase of questions, I stopped myself and remembered one of the lessons I learned this year: Go straight to the Word when you are feeling attacked. Don’t hesitate or delay, it’s the only way to come against those negative thoughts. This year has been a journey of me getting to the root of my true identity and letting God shed off old insecurities. It has been a constant rediscovery of WHO I put my faith in, and unlearning things the world has taught me. For a moment I felt guilty for having so many questions; I felt bad for doubting myself. For doubting God. Though what I discovered was that asking questions was not a bad thing, and it wasn’t an attack.
Having questions, was merely an invitation to go deeper. It’s all about the heart posture, and the purity in just wanting to know who God is and how He wired me. I realized how much more of a desire I have to develop a better understanding, and more context about the Bible. It is a desire to no longer be surface level and to not have faith just to have faith. I want to put my faith IN Jesus and know the promises the Lord gives us. I want to steward my time well here on earth.
God is not afraid of our questions (James 1:5), so seek him FIRST (Matthew 6:33). It’s about our heart and the posture it carries. Another thing I know is God is too good to see you, let you suffer in confusion. Often times when we’re confused, it’s because we want to be. If you don’t want to settle or stay in confusion, seek Him. That dissatisfaction of only knowing what you know surface level is a key indicator that you need to go deeper. Get quiet and intimate with God, search Him. Discover the secrets. He’s not far, or trying to hide, it’s the journey of always seeking Him and wanting more of Him for Him (not for what He can do) that changes your life.
Lastly, you should know that Jesus says, His sheep know His voice; hearing His voice helps you discern His voice (John 10:27). The more you seek, the more He speaks. Be encouraged knowing that you can do hard things and God is with you. Just as He reminds Moses and Joshua that He is with them. I pray that God increases your appetite to go deeper and learn more. He’s not asking us to be lukewarm, so as you mature in your faith don’t be afraid to seek His true wisdom. God is not intimidated by your questions, so keep your heart pure and SEEK. Know what God says about life, and about you, and about the world He created, and just learn how to expand your faith, and stand firm in it. Develop your own voice for who you believe in and why. He’s inviting all of us to go deeper and to rely on Him more and our own understanding less each day. Let God give you more testimonies and let Him be glorified through your life.
Scripture I Held Onto:
– Romans 4:18-21
– James 1:5
– Matthew 6:33
– Matthew 7:7
– John 10:27
– 1 Corinthians 14:33
– Romans 8
– Psalms 27
– Proverbs 3
December Favorites
content
Sermon – God Loves His Word | Social Dallas
Song on repeat – Is He Worthy by Maverick City Music
Podcast – Ep. 46: Where Passion & Faith Meet | Imagine Faith Talk
products
H&M Premium Mohair-Blend Scarf
Estée Lauder Illuminating Shine Lipstick
Dove Body Love Cream Oil Lotion
Outfit Details
Scarf: H&M
Sweater: Free People
Pants: H&M
Boots: Nine West
S T A Y C O N N E C T E D
