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How to Find Quiet Peace When Your Tank Is Completely Empty as an Introvert

How to Find Quiet Peace When Your Tank Is Completely Empty as an Introvert
When your introvert battery hits zero and you're running on empty, finding peace doesn't require a perfect house or hours of uninterrupted silence, it starts with surrendering the pressure to fix everything at once and taking just ten minutes to be still in God's presence. 

As Christian mamas who equate love with constant output, we often push through physical and emotional depletion until we're touched out, irritable, and disconnected from the calm God desires for our homes. 

The good news is that Jesus doesn't ask us to perform for Him when we're exhausted; He invites us to come as we are, let go of the perfectionism that whispers we must earn rest, and allow a simple pause, a deep breath, a whispered prayer, a favorite worship song to reset our nervous system and ground our hearts in His love. 

Discover how releasing the "Holy hustle" and embracing small moments of restoration can transform your weary soul and protect the peace of your entire home.
Read more...

Friendship Warning Flags: Recognizing When to Release and Receive

Friendship Warning Flags: Recognizing When to Release and Receive
As introvert sisters navigating adult friendships, we often settle for less because we fear losing connection. Learn to recognize friendship warning flags and embrace the abundance of healthy community.

As you've grown older, have you noticed how much harder friendship feels especially the kind that truly sustains your soul rather than drains it? If you're an introvert who's caught between holding onto relationships that feel suffocating and the fear of being left alone, this resonates deeply. The truth is, many women operate from a scarcity mindset in friendship, shrinking themselves and hustling to keep connections alive even when they're dying, but what if healthy friendships were actually meant to energize you, not exhaust you? 

Discover the warning flags that signal when it's time to release what's not aligned, what thriving sisterhood actually looks like, and why quality connections rooted in mutual growth and genuine celebration are the precious few worth waiting for. Your people are out there and they won't require you to become smaller to fit into their lives.
Read more...

Behind the Introvert Doors: Finding Freedom, Faith as a Christian Leader with Community

I was looking back through my archives and found a blog post I wrote in 2012 titled "Behind Closed Doors." As I reread it, I was struck by how much the message still resonates today, maybe even more so.

Back then, I wrote about the simple truth that behind every closed door, there is both joy and pain, in our seasons for everything life holds. We cannot see through doors, and know really what is happening behind them. But God does.

As Humans all sharing the same sphere of land, and as Christian Introverted Women with hearts to serve, we can find ourselves shrinking back and  shy when it comes to random actions that don't make sense to our logic. Until we learn the Powerful Invitation from God to serve. 

Because we cannot see through those "doors," we listen for the Holy Spirit's nudges. Have you ever felt that nudge to go here or there, to say something to someone but it doesn't make sense to you?!? To randomly pray for someone who pops into your mind, or you encounter at the store? I used to disregard them thinking it was just me being "too much." But I have learned there is nothing too much about intercession.

Sometimes it's loud and impulsive. Sometimes it's the smallest whispers in one of God's To Do this Week. He might call you to "knock" on a certain door, to send a message, or simply to pray for someone you can't stop thinking about. 

There’s a lot of talk these days about not following your feelings, I get that, but we need to also hone into The Spirit’s whispers, moving us place to place.

I think a lot of us are scared to be judged as nosey, or woo-woo, too spiritual. Fear and insecurity get really loud and logical when we are called Up. The gift of intercession is the blessing of being used by God. Our prayers and The Gift of Presence can mean so much to someone in times of need. When the good stuff is happening, everyone knows. When the hard stuff happens, no one knows. 

When you knock, you may find a joy to celebrate, or a heart to care for. Only God knows what is on the other side of that door. Our part is simply to be available, and trust that He will lead us. We don't need to know all the answers or the full story. We just need to be willing to be a vessel for His love and grace. Here is where we lean in, walk by faith and surrender our will to His. To be available.....

Maybe YOU are the one curled up on the couch behind that closed door, feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders. I know how hard it is when you are the Encourager, the Leader. Be encouraged knowing that the Father above sees you. You are not alone. He is your help in times of need too, and there is no one who loves you more than the Lord God. It is so important that you pray for your Inner Circle, not the ones you step into for others, but your own. You cannot do life, or ministry alone. I mean technically, you can, but you are not called to. We need each other.

Listen, God will send people to you too, just as He has sent you to them, discern their presence, and open the door accordingly, and let them in. You are not letting everyone in, it's not a block party. But for those whom He has sent to you, let them in. 

You are not immune to the dry seasons, the fires and the hardship. If anything, those of us who Lead and Shepherd others are extremely threatening to the enemy. Every Believer is on the list.

No matter which side of the door you find yourself on, know that you are not alone…everyone has a door. Follow the nudge and open the door to your heart, as you also seek the hearts on the other side of theirs. 

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:2-3

May God find us faithful when He nudges us to go, trusting that He is in control and will provide everything we need to be His hands and feet behind closed doors.

What door is God nudging you to knock on today, or perhaps, to open?

For every heart behind every door, God Loves You, Sees you, Hears you and LOVES YOU!!!!!
Big hearts hugs,
Michele


If today's encouragement hugged your HEART today, let me know in the comments or meet me over
 in my Facebook Sisterhood Community! Feel free to share this blog with a friend who needs a heart hug too!
This is how YOU get to hug my HEART back!

Heart Hugs and Blessings,
Michele

The Importance of Friendship for Christian Introverts: Finding Your Circle

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen, as stated in Hebrews 11:1. It involves trusting in God's promises even when the path ahead seems unclear, like navigating a construction zone through a jungle. True faith means standing firm with unwavering confidence that God is already working on our behalf.

God never intended for us to walk our faith journey alone. He provides us with the Holy Spirit and blesses us with what can be called "4 Corner Friends" – those who support and carry us to Jesus when we lack the strength or clarity to see the way forward. Seeking God first is crucial, as it is through this relationship that we gain the strength, provision, and community necessary to nurture our faith.

Building adult friendships requires time, energy, and intentionality, but it is part of God's plan for us and His Kingdom's growth. He knows exactly who we need in our lives and in whose life we are meant to be a supportive presence, tailored to each season. As we pray for our own "4 Corner Friends," we can take comfort in knowing that we are supported by a community, such as the But God Sister Squad, standing in the corner for us.
Read more...

Embracing Forgiveness and Love: Lessons from the Resurrection

Embracing Forgiveness and Love: Lessons from the Resurrection

In the aftermath of Easter, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the profound lessons of the resurrection. This period is not just a celebration of renewal but also a time to embrace the virtues of forgiveness and love, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

When Love Becomes "Revenge"

The resurrection story teaches us a powerful paradox: sometimes the greatest "revenge" isn't revenge at all, but rather a demonstration of radical love. When Jesus rose from the dead after being betrayed and crucified, He didn't seek retribution against those who wronged Him. Instead, He offered forgiveness and reconciliation. This unexpected response to betrayal shows us that love can be the most transformative force in overcoming evil.

As the apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 12:21, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This principle stands at the heart of the Christian faith and offers us wisdom for our daily interactions.

Choosing Forgiveness When Hurt Runs Deep

We've all experienced betrayal, hurt, or injustice that stirs our desire for revenge. The natural human instinct when wounded is to strike back. Yet the resurrection narrative challenges this reflexive response.

Jesus, despite having divine power at His disposal, chose the path of loving kindness. Even from the cross, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). This example sets a high standard for how we might respond when wronged.
Forgiveness doesn't mean condoning harmful actions or remaining in unhealthy situations. Rather, it's about releasing ourselves from the prison of bitterness and allowing God's healing to work in our hearts.

Love as a Dividing Line

Interestingly, love serves as both a unifier and a divider. It draws together those who embrace its principles while sometimes creating separation from those who reject them. This doesn't mean we withhold love from anyone, but rather that living by love's principles may distinguish us from prevailing cultural norms.

When we choose love as our "revenge," we participate in transforming not only our personal relationships but potentially our communities and beyond. Every act of forgiveness creates ripples that extend far beyond the initial interaction.

Living with Grace: Self-Control, Patience, and Mercy

Embracing resurrection principles in daily life requires cultivating specific virtues:
  • Self-control allows us to pause before reacting with anger
  • Patience gives others space to grow and change
  • Mercy extends compassion even when it isn't deserved
These qualities don't come naturally but develop through intentional practice and spiritual growth. The resurrection reminds us that with God's help, we can embody these virtues even in challenging circumstances.

Practical Steps for Resurrection Living

1. Reflect Before Reacting

When someone hurts or offends you, take a moment to breathe and consider your response. Ask yourself: "How might love respond here?" This pause can prevent words or actions you might later regret.

2. Seek God's Kingdom First

Jesus taught us to "seek first the kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33). When we align our priorities with divine values, responses of forgiveness and love become more natural. This spiritual foundation nurtures the fruits of faith, hope, and love in our lives.

3. Embrace Daily Renewal

The resurrection isn't just a historical event but a model for daily renewal. Each morning offers a fresh opportunity to:
  • Purify our hearts from resentment
  • Walk in mercy toward others
  • Choose love over revenge

4. Practice Purposeful Forgiveness

Forgiveness is rarely a one-time decision but often a process of daily surrender. When memories of hurt resurface, recommit to your choice to forgive and ask for divine help in maintaining that commitment.

The Ultimate "Revenge"

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of resurrection living is how it transforms not only situations but people. When we respond to hatred with love, to cruelty with kindness, we participate in God's redemptive work in the world.
This approach to life offers freedom from the exhausting cycle of anger and retribution. It creates space for healing and reconciliation that revenge can never achieve. In this way, love becomes the ultimate "revenge" against everything that seeks to destroy and divide us.

As we continue to reflect on the resurrection's meaning, let's challenge ourselves to apply its principles to our daily interactions. When faced with opportunities for revenge, may we remember the example set for us and choose the more excellent way of love.

God Love YOU!!!!!
If you want to be a rebel and share YOUR story with the world, I have a free worksheet that can help you! Grab it HERE at www.Sharingmystory.com

We are H.I.S. (Hearts in Surrender)
Blessings, 
Michele 

If today's encouragement hugged your HEART today, let me know in the comments or meet me over
 in my Facebook Sisterhood Community! Feel free to share this blog with a friend who needs a heart hug too!
This is how YOU get to hug my HEART back!

Heart Hugs and Blessings,
Michele

Christian Burnout: Moses’ Lessons to Overcome Exhaustion & Find Rest

Feeling overwhelmed and on the brink of burnout is a common experience among Christian women juggling multiple responsibilities. With a staggering rise in burnout rates, notably among pastors, it's evident that this issue extends throughout the community, impacting personal well-being and spiritual health. Embracing rest, as modeled by The Creator on the seventh day, is crucial for balancing life, work, and faith.

The constant busyness many women experience can be spiritually, emotionally, and physically draining, compounded by the belief that rest is unspiritual or selfish. Yet, recognizing rest as a divine gift can transform our approach to life’s demands. By looking at Moses, we learn about the power of delegation, trusting in divine provision, facing challenges with faith, and nurturing relationships—all essential strategies to counter burnout.

Christian women can apply these lessons by embracing God-given rest, sharing responsibilities, nurturing their spiritual life, and building supportive relationships. Rest is not laziness; it’s essential for maintaining peace, wellness, and wholeness. As we learn to navigate life with balance and grace, let’s follow these biblical principles and enjoy the fullness of life as intended.
Read more...

Three Bizarre Christian Friendship Stories: Adult Friendships You Didn't Know You Needed

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, this blog post reflects on the profound lessons learned from three unique friendships, each illustrating different facets of love and connection. The first story recounts a friendship with a pastor's wife that blossomed unexpectedly, teaching the value of mutual support and growth in leadership and faith. This relationship, divinely orchestrated, became a cornerstone for both individuals during a crucial time of personal development and ministry.

The second narrative explores an unexpected bond formed during a sabbatical in Florida, where the author, initially resistant to new connections, found a friend whose outgoing nature and hospitality were exactly what was needed for spiritual growth. This friendship, though unplanned, played a vital role in deepening the author's relationship with the Lord, showcasing how God uses others to support us in our spiritual journeys. The beauty of this connection lay in its unexpectedness and the profound impact it had on both individuals.

Finally, the third story describes a surprising friendship formed at a women's conference, where the author and a stranger were assigned as roommates. Both women were dealing with personal struggles, particularly the roommate who was grieving a recent miscarriage. Their shared experiences of loss and understanding created a deep, comforting bond, demonstrating how God can bring people together in the most unexpected ways to provide solace and companionship. These stories collectively highlight the mysterious and wonderful ways in which friendships can manifest and nurture our souls.
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Behind the Smile of a Leader: A Journey to Authenticity

In a world where many of us wear metaphorical masks to navigate our diverse roles, this article reflects on the journey of shedding those masks to reveal authenticity. The writer describes how perpetual smiling masks served as armor, presenting an image of strength and reliability while simultaneously concealing personal struggles and vulnerability. This narrative highlights the isolating nature of independence without community, encouraging a balance between giving to others and finding strength in one’s own needs being met.

The blog post underscores a transformative journey towards authentic leadership through the removal of such masks. As the writer shares personal struggles, it fosters a newfound connection with others facing similar challenges. The notion here is that true courage lies in vulnerability, where sharing both blessings and burdens bridges gaps and transforms previous protective barriers into collective strength and understanding.

Ultimately, the article advocates for genuine interactions surrounded by supportive communities that allow leaders to flourish. It emphasizes the importance of being supported by trusted friends and mentors, encouraging leaders to accept help and find solace in shared experiences. Embracing authenticity, leaders can demonstrate strength, instill healing, and foster an environment that allows their circle of influence to thrive genuinely and holistically.
Read more...

Simple Sister Series : The Bigger Table

Where are my shy-ish Introverts at? I don't know about you but until recent years, it wasn't that I didn't want to have more new friends....I just didn't have the energy or strength to develop the friendships, so I thought. If you've experienced chronic fatigue or ailments, you know what I mean.

And since I am committed to always being transparent, deep inside there was a part of me that was also afraid to put myself out there and risk rejection. So I rejected myself on their behalf and avoided the pain of the potential, hypothetical rejection of connection. Instead, I stayed in the back, busy being....blocking all with a shy smile on my face.

The Lord knows the desires of our hearts and meets us where we are, giving us who and what we need for each season. 

There are seasons He needs us to focus on friendship with Him above all else, learning to trust, learning who we are in Him, learning what we control and what we can't, learning the giving and receiving....so much...

I have been in seasons He was like, "Hey, here's a friend for ya!" and I wasn't even looking!! He's so gracious knowing what (and who) we need in our lives. When we trust Him, we learn how to let my heart open more quickly to the invitation to connect with a new heart. Not to say that they have full access, time reveals that part or permissions, but instead of avoiding them, we have opportunity to embrace them. 

It has been so much fun finally coming back out of what has felt like hibernation...I have prayed and asked the Lord to enlarge my circle of trust for mutually connected heart sisters. 

If you've ever had one-way friendships, you understand the mutually connected part....I have had both. One way, in that they didn't reciprocate the same way I was giving for whatever reason. Relationships have varying purposes and seasons.  Sometimes we just grow apart or absent-minded and unintentional with our energy and focus. 

Mutually connected for me means we have the same desire to serve and bless the other. It's reciprocal. These are much more rare to find the older we get. I am so thankful for the few the Lord has blessed me with. We show up in like-heartedness. No expectations, just desire to be in each other's lives and sharing life together whatever that looks like at any given season of time. Whether it is a few times a year getting together or a weekly coffee date, tis the season. 

Some relationships are built or maintained online only. Some are from years past, an old friend. Some are in the the every day mix of things, doing life together, while others are random life pop ins and spontaneous moments together.

There's no right or wrong way to "friend." As we each play a part in the Body, so do we each 
in the Heart of one another.

So as I look at the crowded tables, or the tables I don't feel like I am qualified to sit at, I pray and ask God to lead me to the table God has saved a seat for me. We can trust Him in this space, taking our eyes off of ourself, shifting away from fears, and focus on what He has in store. 

Then, God gives us the invitation to ask Him for help filling the other seats at the table, unafraid and with eager anticipation for the heart coming to sit beside us. Maybe they will be a mutually connected sister-friend. Maybe they are a one way Divine appointment to love on for such a time as this alone, or perhaps we are their Divine appointment to receive love from. 

For those of us who serve others through Hospitality and Encouragement, it's easy to get caught up thinking we are there to give, which is great, but one of the lessons I have had to learn, is God also places us at tables from which we are to receive, for such a time as this. 

Are you ready in heart to look beyond your familiar circles and welcome new hearts to your "friendship table?"

Here are some ways to look for new Christian friendships:
  1. Be Intentional: Pray, asking God to prepare your heart and help you see the ones He has gifted to you in a season. You never know where these friendships will come from. But God does! 
  2. Get Involved: Seek opportunities to surround yourself with other women who have common interests as you, seek friendships from different backgrounds, ages, or life stages. These relationships can broaden your perspective and deepen your faith whether they become part of your very inner circle or otherwise. I recently experienced this and I cherish my new friends so much.
  3. Practice Hospitality: Open your heart and if possible, your home. Set up a meet up online or off. Sharing a coffee or attending an event together is a powerful way to make new connections but as an Introvert especially if you lean towards shyness, don't wait around for the invite! BE the invite...even if it's on Zoom! I know it takes more from you if you're an Introvert or kinda on the shy side, but I promise you, the blessing is so good when you push past the nerve blocks.
  4. Join or Start a Small Group: This provides a structured environment to meet new people and grow together in faith around a topic you are both interested in whether it be online or offline and you don't have to lead it, just join it, until you're ready to create one.
  5. Volunteer: Serving alongside others often opens doors to meaningful friendships united by a common purpose.
  6. Be Patient: New friendships take time to develop. Don't rush the process or have set expectations of what the connection will be; allow trust and connection to grow into what God has planned.
  7. Pray for those Mutual Connections: Ask God to bring people into your life who will mutually encourage and stir up your faith as you give the same.
Remember, expanding your friendship circle and building a bigger table isn't always easy. It might feel awkward or uncomfortable at first, especially for you shy Introverts. You might encounter differences in opinions or experiences. It's a great way to learn from others as we step outside of our own bubbles. 

While I look to connect with people who have the same season as me, I also look for others who know more than me and have different experiences and gifting,  expanding my little world, often sharpening me in places I find I am weaker. 

Iron sharpening iron relationships are beautiful especially when they are inside the precious heart connection of Sisters.

As you welcome new friends into your heart, be prepared to both give and receive.  You have unique gifts and experiences to offer others. Widening your friendship circle isn't just about personal growth; it's about building The Body of Christ, bringing Him the glory as we shine our Lights as a city on a hill! 

Let's pray: Spirit, lead us, help us with courageous steps. Heavenly Father, give us courage to reach out beyond our comfort zones. Help us to see others as You see them, and to build friendships that reflect Your love. May our widening circles of friendship and tables we help build bring glory to Your name. Cast off all fear. Clear the seats set by You and help us partner with You to fill them, welcoming in the heart connections You have prepared for each one present. We trust You. We shine for You. We love You most. Amen.

As you expand your Christian friendships, remember Jesus' words in John 15:12, "Love each other as I have loved you." Let this be the foundation of all your friendships, old and new.

For more in the Sister Series, check out a recent one here.
If you struggle with social courage, I've got you with some practical help here.

Hugs & Love, Michele

If today's encouragement hugged your HEART today, let me know in the comments or meet me over
 in my Facebook Sisterhood Community! Feel free to share this blog with a friend who needs a heart hug too!
This is how YOU get to hug my HEART back!

Heart Hugs and Blessings,
Michele

How Do I Talk to People without Having a Panic Attack as an Introvert

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Let's Talk about stepping outside of our comfort zone as a shy Christian Introvert while navigating social Interactions. I've talked about Overcoming Social Anxiety over here in this blog so feel free to hop over there afterwards if that's something you've struggled with too... 

Today, lets talk about talking to anyone, anytime and how to overcome this freak out moment we feel the moments we walk into a new space and feel overwhelmed, whether it's running into a neighbor, sitting next to a stranger and trying to not make eye contact, or attending events knowing you will be meeting people since it's....an....event! LOL (The blog mentioned above will deep dive into that for ya!)

I think most Introvert women don't find it extremely hard to talk to people, because we already choose to talk to a few people at a time anyway, AND those few people are usually, OUR people. It's when we get outside of our comfortzones and have to manage the anxiety that comes with unprepared conversations!! 

This used to trigger me so much I would never go to social events alone, always hiding behind my extrovert friend....and forever, not making eye contact in order to avoid being called on in a group setting, or engaging in the small talk of meeting someone. Cuz you think it makes you invisible...haha, not so! They will just yell your name louder or walk straight up to your face and start talking! It's best to look up, just saying! 

I don't know what's scarier, a big group setting or a small group. In big group, you can more easily camouflage in whereas the smaller groups, they can look you in the eye and start talking to you! EEK!!! It's not that we don't LOVE the people, its the trigger of sheer panic in the unknown of what's about to happen! 

What will they ask me...What will I say when they ask whatever...Will I look stupid....Will I fumble my words...Will I forget my words...Will I have a piece of salad in my teeth from the dinner... Will they ignore me, make fun of me, see my insecurities....Will they reject me and exclude me from that point on from anything qualifying me as their friend or partner, or whatever the circumstance. 

Just the thought of going to a new place alone would raise the panic into the Numb-Zone or Robot-Zone. If you've had panic and anxiety, you likely know the feeling of auto-pilot, avoidance, out of body experiencing of the moment, grasping for breath and control....controlling of your thoughts zinging all around in your head, your heart rate running on a treadmill and not stepping off any time soon, all the while smiling and listening to the actual conversation happening, not the one you are thinking COULD happen, or may be happening between the words layered on the ACTUAL one....oh boy what a spastic space! 

Instead of completely avoiding, numbing, or anxiety amnesia and have no clue what happened, I would love to help you find some PEACE & JOY and STOP panicking when you talk to someone. It's gonna take being intentional with your energy and focus...and practice for your heart and brain to learn where it is safe. So, lets talk about the 3 things you can do to talk to others rooted in LOVE and not FEAR! By combining practical tips with the wisdom of scriptures, any shy girl can find courage! I SURE HAVE and let me tell you....it will change every part of your life, most importantly your relationships and even more precious, your relationship with Your Heavenly Father! Ohhh, it's gooooood. I am so excited for you!! 

Tip 1: Prayerful Preparation
One of key things for overcoming anxiety is preparation. Before entering any social setting, PRAY and step into Grace the won't let you go! Take a minute and consider that GOD has not only pinned this day for you, but He is also with you. He also has not only equipped you for this encounter, but He is WITH you in it too!!! When we remember the Foundation we stand on, the presence He promises, when we turn our eyes on His purposes (I talked about this in the above blog), we can step into the unknown knowing we re not alone nd there is nothing we cannot handle with Him beside us. 

Don't mistake nerves for fear. It's okay to be a little nervous, it IS the unknown. It helps me lean more onto God for His help with words, energy, focus, purpose, comfort, wisdom, discernment. As I prepare, I am entering into worship of praise. Praise and Worship move the focus off of me and fretting about all I am not, and instead, focus on all GOD IS! 

So, deep breath and lean into Philippians 4:6-8, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Think on these things..." the are GOOD! 


Tip 2: Listening with Love
Instead of dwelling on the fear of saying the wrong thing, or wondering what they are thinking, shift your focus to genuine listening. Proverbs 2:2-5 encourages us to "turn your ear to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding." By actively listening, you not only connect with others on a deeper level but also alleviate the pressure of constant talking. 

Most people enjoy talking about themselves and I found this to be a great way to deflect from myself having to talk, and risk being judged. Sadly, while this helped me be a great listener, I became a good stuffer, hiding my own thoughts and feelings to feel safe and unseen. Learning to listen with a filter of Love means genuine exchange, giving and receiving between each one, including YOU! 


Tip 3: Anticipation not Anxious
Scripture emphasizes the importance of fixing our eyes on Jesus during challenging times. Hebrews 12:2 encourages us to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the perfecter of faith." When we recognize that our racing heart and lump in our throat can come from sheer panic as well as extreme joy, as I sit in worship, sit in Love, I can reframe my brain to seek anticipation of something amazing about to connect between us. I consider what if I am being sent by God to be His hands and feet, His heart hug to this person. What a humbling thought to consider, being a vessel of hope and love to someone else in Jesus Name.
As Christ followers, this is our purpose! We bridge gaps of Heaven and Earth with Love. If we surrender our hearts nd minds to God, He can more feely move through us. It is a wondrous freedom!! Fear submits to faith and faith leads us into Love where we find joy and peace, courage and confidence. Its exciting to believe you are sent.

Does that mean awareness doesn't happen? Does that mean every conversation will be flowing and memorable, profound and life altering for you or them? No. Let go of the pressure of any outcome! 

This should be BONUS TIP #4! JUST SHOW UP, willing, available, courageous and prepared to see something new because you know, He's renewing our minds and always doing a new thing! His mercies are new every single morning. He can do immeasurably more than we can ever think or imagine! 

Be patient and practice!!! Focus on Love, not loss...fear what blessing you'll miss rather than what you'll mess up! His heart is for you and is near! Grace upon Grace!!! Jesus is your Guide, Way, Words, Strength, Support, Courage, Peace and very breath. Give Him your breath.

He's got you!!! Keep your eyes open for the women and Mentors He will place in your path to sharpen your iron. They will lift you through their example and affirmations, prayers. Learn from them. Humble yourself, admit where you are feeling weak and let them step into courage with you!! It's a powerful and beautiful learning and rising up to the Glory and Grace of God!! 

He's Got You...They've Got You...and I've got you too! I will be hosting workshops and challenges in my Sister Group (ButGodSisterSquad.com) to help you practice these things but in your every day life, pray and practice! There are no do overs in life. LIVE IT!!!!!! A 7 Day Love Others Challenge is happening in there already! 

So much anticipation & love for you! 
Your Fellow Shy Introvert,
Michele

Hey - If you haven't seen my list of tons of ways you share love with others, grab it here! LoveForAll.MicheleDickerson.com




If today's encouragement hugged your HEART today, let me know in the comments or meet me over
 in my Facebook Sisterhood Community! Feel free to share this blog with a friend who needs a heart hug too!
This is how YOU get to hug my HEART back!

Heart Hugs and Blessings,
Michele
I am so glad (and honored) you are here! I have been blogging since 2009 as a way to journal out my thoughts as I pray God would use these story shares as practical heart encouragements for YOU TOO! We all need to recall and share those Living Stone moments.
Feel free to look around and make yourself at home! 


If you are looking for an Online Sister Community 
Are you an Introvert Rising?!? If you are looking for a Community of HEART Centered, Jesus Lovin' Sisters ready to rise up over their insecurities and seek after the Heart of God?!?  Meet us here! 



I have two free resources for you: 
1.) If you'd like some help sharing YOUR story or testimony, here's a link to grab the fill in the blank PDF I created to help you get started sharing YOUR heart with others! There's a video that goes with it over in the But God Sister Squad Community on Facebook.

2.) Join my Online Community HERE! http://www.butgodsistersquad.com


Heart Hugs and Blessings,

Michele"For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named that according to the riches of His glory He may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith--that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.
Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
Ephesians 3:14-21 ESV


Pssst...by Law, I have to share there are affiliate links in here where I earn money from your purchase when you make a purchase! it's affiliate marketing and I love not having to sell stuff! And you know me, I am not gonna sell anything, but I will share everything! I love it! 

A Little About My Heart

 
Born and raised in the church, a Christ Follower, Kingdom Encourager, Wife, Mama, and an Overcomer! GLORY TO GOD!!

I lived most of my life fearful, anxious, and insecure.. I found myself always hiding but serving, striving for perfection in my less-thanness, as a way to earn my worth to self, God and others, sacrificing in the name of serving, hospitality and humility...putting others needs before my own from a place of hiding in my lack, and trying to earn value rather than serving in the space of grace, confident faith and overflowing love. 

Never attaining, only to lead a life of more insecurity, overwhelm, anxiety, and panic, screaming to break free from this bondage, to be that actual strong, courageous Christian Woman everyone else seemed to be, but me. 

BUT GOD.

In 2009, Where Faith Is was born as a blog, learning my voice behind the safety of a keyboard, building courage to speak my truth behind the screen...and here all these years later, Little by little, God is expanding my heart boundaries as He reveals more of His to me. I am so excited to share so freely! 

I especially love being an encourager to other encouragers in the faith who know they are called to encourage yet they themselves struggle with their value and ability. Isn't that how the enemy works? He tries to disqualify us in the same area we are called to shine! What an irony!  

I believe if more people let go of fear and insecurity, surrendered to grace and BELIEVED their value, their spark for life will return to a roaring fire that lights up wet wood! 

When women choose to walk courageous and strong in body, mind and spirit...they step out of the boat and walk on water as Peter did, part the waters like Moses and set more people FREE in His name through their Divine purpose to the Glory of GOD! We are each a Light House of Strength on the shorelines of Grace . 

Friend, you may not believe it, but you are meant for more than eat/sleep/work/repeat. You are also equipped with good works to serve and bless the Kingdom Body, and the world with His Love, through YOU! You've got to surrender your fear and let Him lead you.

You are more able than you think you are and most likely, the thing you feel is the weakest part of you is the strongest thing about you!

If you are an introvert too and want to be a part of our newly launching online community, we are here for you!! Let's Connect! It's an honor to encourage the Encouragers.

I am H.I.S. (Heart In Surrender & Service).

Hugs & Blessings, 
Michele

"So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 
Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." Philippians 2:1-4

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