Throughout my journey, books have consistently led me, grounded me, and provided me with a roadmap. In 2022, I’ve been more intentional about reading books birthed by African writers. Lo and behold, I stumbled upon ‘Directions’ by Gwen Addo. Now I’ve admired Gwen for years; primarily because despite her success in the luxury hair industry, she does not diminish the God Factor in building her empire.
‘Directions’ birthed the inspiration for #SundayService (shared weekly on Instagram). On the chapter about social media, I was reminded that this platform is a place of service- a place to connect. That reminder cut across and upon completing the book, I felt God had just spoken to me. I felt directed to be more intentional about documenting my experiences, in hopes of empowering others. I recall debating with myself, “You’re doing enough to empower others” and then another voice would whisper, “Until you can learn to truly empty your cup, the dregs at the bottom will always dilute your empowerment.”
You see, we often underestimate the medium in which God feels best to capture our attention. However, cultivating a pure heart and learning to hear His voice through our seemingly everyday experiences best positions us to open the door when our breakthrough knocks. It’s no fault of our own; most of us are conditioned to believe that women and men of God are only those who have been called, or in some cases instilled upon themselves, to evangelize the Word from the pulpit. When we grow to embrace the reality that each of us - regardless of our flaws and limitations - can serve as messengers, we begin to operate from a higher place we may never be able to process.
Point in case. On many occasions, I’ve revisited past services and wondered if the words were indeed poured from my well of wisdom. And then it suddenly dawns on me: the moment you go on your knees and ask God to use you, you’ve now agreed to become His vessel. And the more you pour in abundance, the more He replenishes you in relevance. The more you pour selflessly, the more He serves as the compass you need to reach the pinnacle of whom you’ve been called to become. In 2023, don’t hold back.