Several years ago, I took a New Testament class at my church. This class was taught by a woman who knew more about the Bible than I could ever imagine. She offered great insight and knowledge during our classes and there were times when I wondered if she and I were reading the same Book.

At the time I was taking this class, I was also trying to start my own business and really wanted my father's help. Unfortunately, he did not want to support me in this venture and believed it would not work. My father has always been my hero and my standard for success. I idolized him and wanted him to always be proud of me. To have him not support something that I knew I was called to do was heartbreaking. How could I honor my earthly father and be obedient to God at the same time?

One evening we were studying the Song of Songs in my class and for some reason, no one was paying attention. We were in the gymnasium for class and it was really cold and we all were ready to go home. As the teacher wrapped up she said she wanted to give us her interpretation of the last three verses of Song of Songs. She said she might get in trouble for sharing her view about what God was saying to His beloved, but she felt it needed to be said. Her words were,
"Oh, don't look at Me with those big, beautiful brown eyes of yours! For when you look up at Me, My heart just melts. I love you so much, I just want to give you the world!"

Those were God's healing words to me. He knew I needed to hear and know Him for myself. In essence He was saying, "Monica, I want to give you the world. Your earthly father cannot give you what I can. He can't be your provider, cheerleader, source of wisdom, discernment, finances, instruction and direction the way I can. Only I can be your Strength and the One who fills all of your needs to the full. I want to do this for you. I have so much for you and I love you with an everlasting love, a love no one else has for you."

Even though this happened several years ago, every time I think about that moment, God reminds me of His promises and always reveals something new about Himself to me. From this lesson, I was given eyes to see my earthly father as a human being instead of an idol.

I am excited and humbled by the fact that God wants to be with me and care for me. He wants to do and be the same for you. Will you let Him?

To Him be all the glory and honor!

Monica

Credentials

Over the years, I have earned credentials such as a B.S. degree in Dance, certifications in life coaching, wedding planning and image consulting and am currently pursuing an M.A. in Practical Theology. I have spent twenty-four years in the retail, fashion and beauty industries and have also spent nine years in the insurance industry (No, I am not that old! The careers overlapped during those years.)

So what does all of this mean? It means I have paid my dues, skinned my knees, and burned the midnight oil in order to achieve. Yet, no matter how hard I work to achieve, nothing will compare to what was achieved for me as a child of God. For twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year I am a sinner saved by grace. I am a woman who wakes up every day determined to live her best for God.

What credentials or initials do you have before or after your name? Do they represent degrees or certifications? Are they M.O.M., which represents a vocation that comes with the responsibility of raising precious children? Or are they W.I.F.E., which comes with the tasks of being partner, friend and lover? Some of you may see the letters S.I.N.N.E.R. or U.N.W.O.R.T.H.Y. after your name. Please know that you no longer have to carry or claim those for yourself.

As a child of God, your most valuable designation is R.E.D.E.E.M.E.D.! You are
R - reconciled and restored to righteousness
E - edified by God's Word and truth
D - delivered from sin and death
E - elevated from darkness to light
E - encouraged to embrace who you are in Christ
M - made in His image and likeness, not for the world, but for His glory and honor
E - essential for the fulfillment of His plans and purposes
D - a delight and joy to God.

Through God's grace and mercy, we can receive the greatest gift and His seal of approval. This designation comes with the greatest value and the greatest worth. Receive what is rightfully yours in Him.

Be blessed,
Monica