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Nineteen-seventy was a special year, a time I was selected to enter this world. March 16, 1970, was the perfect day for God to make a big announcement to the world and to my parents, “It’s time for the arrival of my daughter, Rhovonda.” What a magnificent day it must’ve been! I never truly wanted to know what kind of day it was when I was born. The idea never crossed my mind. Not until now. It’ll be a fascinating conversation to have with my aunts and uncles.
You see, my mother and father are no longer here. My dad died a sixteen months ago and my mom left this earth in the summer of 1974. I was only four.
Interestingly, I learned some cool facts about my birth date. According to EverythingBirthday.com, I was born on a Monday, 28,263 days ago, and out of 332,888 babies (mybirthday.ninja) being born on that special day, I was gifted birthed from my mother and father. Perhaps the popular song of that year, Bridge Over Troubled Waters by Simon and Garfunkel (takemeback.to), could be heard playing on the radio.
Today as I survey over 10 decades of my life, one thought floods my mind. I have no regrets or complaints, surprisingly. Of course, I can find something to complain about. I could choose to be bitter about my misfortunes and mistakes. Right now, I can allow the traumatic experiences from my past dictate a surge of toxic thoughts and emotions. Sure, I can look at my glass being half empty instead of half full or I can dismiss my happiness with pessimism and focus on all that’s going on right now in the world. But I cannot let those things cloud my mind and steal my joy. I refuse.
Happy is the person who trusts in You, Lord of Hosts!Psalms 84:12, HCSB
When I consider where I’ve been, what I’ve done, what I have seen, and the woman I’ve become, I can say that I am blessed! My mind is filled with so much gratitude. My heart is exceedingly grateful to be alive and in my right mind. I appreciate the mercy God grants me daily. Every day you and I are given new mercies that are infinite! Do you hear me?
God’s mercy towards us will NEVER run out.
Hallelujah! And we are promised in Psalm 23:6 to have Goodness and Unfailing Love (Mercy) be our companions. They are following us all the days of our lives! Great is the Lord’s faithfulness towards us!
Looking back, I can see that I didn’t value life much.
Sis, I wasn’t supposed to be here. In my mind, I was damaged goods, unlovable and unwanted. And I lived that way. I made stupid and reckless decisions that were driven by rage, fear, and torment. Looking back, I can see that I didn’t value life much; and my life should have ended a long time ago. But God. If it wasn’t for His grace and love, I would not be here today. He values me (and you!). He saw my needs and met them, gave me a new life, a new heart and a new outlook on life. And I am thankful. Through it all, God has been there for me. Always. He will forever be my hope and trust.
Lamentations 3:22-23, (ESV)22 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
You and I were created to glorify God with our lives. My life’s purpose is to encourage, inspire, equip and empower the lives of others. God has given me that assignment. He has ordained me to do this by way of being a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, teacher, preacher, speaker, writer, and in whatever capacity He sees fit. Likewise, God has ordained you with a purpose. He has given you an assignment to serve Him now and for eternity. Our gifts and talents and resources God has given us must be used for His glorious plan!
My life’s purpose is to encourage, inspire, equip and empower the lives of others.
I’m so grateful that the Lord believes in me. He believes in you, too. He has more work for us to do. Turning 51 is the beginning of a new chapter in my life. There are things that I must complete in this new season, and I am honored to continue serving the Lord! I’m excited about what lies ahead!
As we embark on a new week, new month, and a new chapter in our lives, let’s think about the assignment(s) God has given us and reflect on the following questions:
What am I doing to faithfully serve God?
What am I doing to manage and complete my God-given assignments?
As I work on these assignments, what kind of thoughts consume my mind?
Do I have negative emotions and attitudes hindering and distracting me from fulfilling my God-given assignment?
Could fear and worry be preventing me from walking in my true calling and serving God wholeheartedly?
Say this prayer with me: Father, I trust You. I need You. Thank You for believing in me, despite me. You know me. You’re acquainted with all my ways. Yet, You still love me and want to use me for Your kingdom. Father, I appreciate Your love. Help me be devoted to You more, and appreciate the things You have appointed me over. I want to please You with my life and service. When You call my name or You return, may I be found faithful over what You have given me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Are you ready to embrace your freedom? Have you had an opportunity to meet Jesus Christ? Has He become your Savior? Click here to learn how you can embrace true freedom.