Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice.”

Something I’ve really been working on lately is praising God in everything. Literally EVERYTHING! Since I’ve made the decision to stop complaining and shift my focus on praise and God’s goodness the enemy has tried his hardest to get me to give up. The enemy wants you to backslide. To give up and be defeated, but refuse to give in! I was just speaking with a friend on boundaries and using our God given authority. I believe we are to use it with not only people in our lives but the enemy as well.

If we let the enemy walk all over us he will! We have to make the conscious decision to shift our focus from the flesh to praise. We are to walk by faith not by sight. When you choose to praise instead of complain the enemy will assault you in every way possible. But don’t get discouraged because that is a sign that you are on the right path! As a child of God we don’t give in to the enemy’s temper tantrums. Tell the enemy “NO!” and refuse to let him steal your joy.

I have a little story that is a great example of this. So, the other day I was driving back to work from a doctors appointment. I was driving down the road and this woman stared right at me for about a minute, and then when I was 2 feet away she decided to pull out in front of me! I had to slam on my breaks so hard my tires squealed. She could have killed me. But I literally laughed and said “Not today Satan! You will not steal my joy today!” I had to laugh because amongst everything else going on the enemy’s intentions were so clear. He wants to steal your joy. He wants you to speak words that cancel your destiny. Don’t give him that power over you! Romans 12:12 “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

We are called to be the light. When you see a beautiful sunrise or sunset the light invokes joy and peace. God is saying “Arise and Shine! It is time to let your light shine brightly.” Don’t let the enemy steal your light, your joy, or your anointing. For the joy of the Lord is our strength and stronghold. Speak it until you believe it. Speak it until you feel it. Speak it until you see it. Lift your eyes to Jesus and allow Him to speak into you and your situation. Don’t give up because that is exactly what the enemy wants. Continue to praise and be expectant God is doing everything He has promised. Stay close to God and trust that He will bring everything to pass in His perfect timing.

One last little story of encouragement! As I drove to work the other morning I was praying and just letting God know everything on my heart. As I poured out my heart and felt heavy with the whole situation I looked over as I was driving and saw a street sign. “Taylor” which is my name. I saw the street sign and as I read my name I felt so much peace wash over me. I could hear the Father saying my name “Taylor, it is all going to be okay. I got you.” Whew! What a simple little sign at the time but this reminder brought so much peace. So, I just want to remind you that no matter what your situation is God is right there. He is calling your name. He is saying “Hey! It is okay. It is all going to be okay because I love you.” Trust that your Heavenly Father loves you and He is working everything out. Just be faithful to praise Him even when it might not make sense. He is so so good.

xoxo Taylor Nicole

ps…Remember You are Fearfully Made