This Little Light of Mine

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine…

Hey friends,

Today, I wanted to take a moment and share some things that have been weighing on my heart. Lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed. I’ve been in a slump because I’ve allowed my stress and anxiety to overrule my thoughts and emotions. In moments like these, I have to remind myself to rely on my faith. I’m not in this alone. God has a plan for me, and he will see his plan through.

With that said, I wanted to share a personal story with all of you today. I wanted to talk about my faith and how I came to be a Christian. For those that don’t know, I did not grow up going to church. I wouldn’t say I was a nonbeliever, but I also did not have a personal relationship with God. During my early teenage years, a lady named Roni started working with my mom. Roni was a fiery little thing with a passion for God. She introduced my mom to Christianity and eventually invited us to church one Sunday. I wasn’t sure what to think at first. As an introvert, the whole experience made me uncomfortable at first. The church Roni attended was very traditional, and everything all seemed so foreign to me. The minister was very nice, but I had a difficult time connecting to the messages. I also found it challenging to make friends since most of the congregation consisted of older adults. Nevertheless, I was determined to follow Christ. I wanted to grow my faith, so when I turned 15 years old, I decided to accept Jesus as my savior.

Later that year, we were invited to a Christmas program at a church just down the street. I was nervous about going. I had gotten used to our church despite not understanding a lot of the sermons. The last thing I wanted was to feel uncomfortable again. However, the moment I walked into Calvary Community, I felt a sense of belonging. I wasn’t nervous at all. I was content and eager to watch the program. It was an excellent program indeed. I don’t think my eyes ever left the stage. Once the program was over, the head pastor spoke. That night the words that Pastor Carl said touched me in a way that I can’t explain. He spoke with such conviction, and there was no denying that he was letting the light that God gave him shine bright. For the first time in my life, I understood what I needed to do. Just going to church wasn’t enough. I needed to have a personal relationship with God. I needed to know him, to follow him, and to trust him with my life. We ended up leaving the church we were at and started attending Calvary. Although I no longer attend Calvary, it will always hold a special place in my heart. I’m fortunate enough to go to a church with my husband that feels just as welcoming and inviting as Calvary.

I am not perfect, and to this day, I am still learning and strengthening my relationship with Christ. I’ve taken steps forward only to take two steps back. Through it all, God has never left my side. He’s not going to leave your side either. No matter how far you push him away. No matter what you’ve done. No sin is too great than his love for you. I believe God brings different people into our lives for a reason. He brought Roni into my mom’s life so we could know Him. He brought Pastor Carl into my life because He knew I needed someone to help me grow in my faith. Pastor Carl made an impact on my life, and I learned so much through him. I am forever thankful for his teachings.

I recently learned that Pastor Carl has prostate cancer. Despite his circumstances, he isn’t letting cancer take away his sparkle. His light still shines, brighter than ever. What an example he is to all of us. Even in difficult times, we can’t let anyone or anything dull our sparkle. I am made to shine. You are made to shine. We are all made to shine. My faith and the light the Lord has given me are the foundation behind my blog. Yes, I want to inspire you to create a home that’s warm and loving. However, I also want you to understand that you are loved. You are important. You also have a light in you that deserves to sparkle. I hope to inspire you to bring that out. I also encourage you to invite Jesus into your heart if you haven’t already done so. I can’t begin to explain all the beautiful things He has done for your life and mine.

Let’s unleash our inner sparkle!

Comment below if you have any questions or you would like me to pray for you.

Thanks for reading.

Love, Brandi