Hi All!
By now, you may know that I think the #Harriet movie is a MUST SEE film. Yes, like many, I’ve known of Harriet Tubman’s incredible heroism in bringing hundreds of slaves out of bondage into freedom via the Underground Railroad for years. But seeing her story as a young woman when she first started out on her improbable journey opened the door to many important insights into her character.
The most powerfully consistent insight was her belief in God. Without maps, a flashlight, sometimes without shoes or food, she found her way to freedom the first time by herself, guided only by God. Harriet couldn’t read or write, but she had her own GPS: God’s Personal Signals – to follow. God led her to the paths and the people she needed. She prayed mightily and leaned heavily on this to direct her thoughts, courage, and steps.
Seeing those scenes in the film reinforced for me how powerful prayer can be to strengthen us on our journeys through life. So often, we may see prayer as a Sunday only thing to do. But I’ve found that prayer, which is not the same as meditation, even though that is also a great thing to do — does something else. For me, it reinforces Faith, “which makes things possible, even if those things aren’t easy”. That quote is on the wall of my office.
For those who believe, prayer can be an intimate and on-going conversation with God. Something that can be done while
driving, walking, doing the dishes…and of course in repose as well. I enjoy church, and go when the feeling hits me. Every day, however, I talk to God. I’ve found that having a personal relationship strengthens me in ways that continue to astound me and fortifies the foundation of Faith I need to Press On:
PRESS ON
PRESS ON, ALTHOUGH THE ROAD IS ROCKY
PRESS ON, THROUGH RIVERS OF DOUBT
PRESS ON WHEN “NO” SEEMS TO GREET YOU OFTEN
JUST SMILE AND SIMPLY PRESS ON
PRESS ON WHEN OTHERS TRY TO STOP YOU,
EVEN WHEN THEIR HEARTS ARE TRUE
PRESS ON TO SHARE YOUR GOD-GIVEN GIFTS
BECAUSE GOD MADE ONLY ONE YOU!
As I’ve gotten older, this personal relationship is even more important. As life continues to challenge us all, with losses, health issues, dreams deferred, patience tested, as well as with triumphs — knowing from whom all things flow helps to keep my perspective about who really is in control. I’ve spoken before about how letting go of the need to control is freeing. Realizing God has everything under control is that and more.
Here are some examples.
Who doesn’t get anxious from time to time? I know I do. A good friend from my Bible Study group shared a tip to use
when anxious about things. She suggested that when anxiety bubbles up, just breathe and remember to put God into that situation in your mind — because God is about peace. Putting God reflexively and immediately into an anxious situation, and knowing that He really controls it — can help direct your actions by calming the spirit, mind, and body. It’s GREAT for reducing stress, and you know how important that is for your health.
Another good friend sends me Bible verses and spiritual quotes every morning. It’s her ministry and it’s truly amazing and is a blessing to me and to so many.
As Harriet showed us through the movie, keeping God front and center is also great for doing what seems impossible. She persevered through incredible odds, personal pain and challenges time and time again to use her gifts for others. Through the gifts God has given each one of us, we can do much more than we think we can. Putting on The Full Armor of God every day (Ephesians 6:13-18) equips us to do so in every situation.
So, while each of us has a unique journey, don’t let the distractions and noises of life dull the impact of your own GPS – God’s Personal Signals. Tune into it to help you navigate the terrain. I will share testimonials and ideas more often…but please feel free to share yours here, too. You never know who it might help to Sizzle!
Hugs,
Amy
Amy S. Hilliard is an award-winning entrepreneur, corporate marketing executive, health and wellness advocate, lifestyle blogger and author. A Harvard MBA, Howard graduate and community contributor, she is the single mother of two young professionals proudly making their way in the world. Connect with Amy on Instagram at @amyshilliard and @sizzlingafter60
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