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De-Termination

It is often right about now, as we creep toward the end of January, that passions for goal setting start to dim and the best of intentions begin to crumble under the strain of unforeseen challenges. This is all the more reason to keep a fluid and positive attitude instead of a rigid one that demands perfectionism.

Can you relate to the picture of my grandson who’s exhausted from being a super hero? I certainly can and on the daily I’ve discovered that I must adapt to certain unavoidable interruptions with a can-do attitude also making time to recharge and refocus weekly so that I can sustain for the duration.

I have a personal bent toward perfectionism, which also lends to procrastination and control on certain levels, but I’ve learned that reaching even three quarters of my goal is better than none at all. As they say, elephants are eaten one bite at a time not all at once and for some of us there’s an endless line-up linking trunk to tail so we’re better off throwing an elephant eating party to delegate those time sensitive tasks that might keep us from progress.

Some days, I surpass my to do list while others leave a questionable impression over how well the previous 24 hours were managed. I think it’s important in all our “doing” that we extend the same grace and forgiveness to ourselves that we would to someone else acknowledging the difference between constructive discipline and self-condemnation when analyzing progress. After all it is more about the journey than the destination, right?

EXTINGUISH THE HOT SPOTS

Personal growth is an equal opportunity for everyone at any level or circumstance but unfortunately, we often get in the way of our own progress when we fail to deal with negative mindsets. You can’t afford to pitch your tent on dead-end roads simply because you’ve run out of ideas, inspiration or energy. It’s imperative in those detours, which threaten to terminate your dreams, that you DE-terminate the vision with the right perspective. The Bible points the way for you to have the mind of Christ so that you will successfully achieve your divine purpose wherever that may be.

Anything worth doing usually comes with opposition and as a believer you must recognize that you don’t wrestle with flesh and blood but with powers and principalities. If you are fulfilling your purpose on this earth, you might be encountering the kind of opposition that doesn’t want to see you succeed!

Knowing this requires wisdom and discerning of spirits because its too easy to blame the devil for failures that he had nothing to do with when God wants you to be accountable for your part of the equation. It’s equally important to remember that you are perfectly equipped with the authority needed to reign over every challenge in front of you when God has called you to the task. Discernment will teach you to navigate through spiritual warfare and recognize the reason to especially not give up in this case!

DISSOLVE THE DOUBT

Knowing that whatever God starts He also finishes is your key to living in peace, confidence and positivity! Subsequently, there are times we must reevaluate the timing along with our motives when a project doesn’t leave the ground or drains every resource instead of becoming fruitful. These are the life-lessons, which build character for partnering with God. Such is the ever-balancing walk as we learn to follow our Chief Advisor and Protector of our faith.

You have an empty canvas staring back at you as the new year unfolds so don’t allow double-mindedness to eat up all of your potential. Spending intentional time with God will give you the confidence to set your sights and never look back! May this new season bring fruition to whatever God has called you to do and may you leap tall buildings with great DE-TERMINATION!!

Mark Steven Filkey

Pastor Founder Of West Coast World Outreach Church Inc. / Presiding Bishop Of Bridges Fellowship International / PCMMF Inc. Stockton California

My dear friend Brenda Crouch is in my opinion one of the rare hidden treasures in the kingdom of God today. She is an authentic worshiper; inspiring public speaker, a gifted singer song writer / an up and coming author and much more. I think what touches my heart most is Brenda's deep desire and sincere love for both God and His people! With the heart of a true servant Brenda continues to demonstrate both publicly and privately that she is in love with the God she so passionately serves! Jordana and I and in fact our entire family have shared the privilege of not only spending time with her and her husband Paul, but also of spending precious time in the creative presence of the Holy Spirit worshiping together. I can assure you from our own personal experience that she is as authentic as they come!

Her ministry is anointed , relative multicultural and extremely inspiring! So it is with great pleasure that I can recommend Brenda Crouch to any community leader, church, ministry or CEO who's looking for someone who both inspires and connects with their people or anyone who shares the privilege of meeting her in person!

Tony Elenburg

Associate Pastor, Lighthouse Christian Fellowship

It's easy to see Brenda is beautiful, and when you hear her sing, you will no doubt recognize she is musically gifted. But, the real measure of Brenda's gifting is her Christ-like integrity; the way she conducts herself when she is not on a platform. It is there her authenticity and depth are revealed. As one of Brenda's pastors, it is with confidence I point young, aspiring worship leaders toward Brenda, and simply say ... "watch"!

Holly McClure

Producer and Host of "Holly on Hollywood"

"Brenda Crouch has a beautiful heart for the Lord that is evident in everything she does. Aside from being a gifted writer, speaker and talented singer, Brenda has a joy for life and a passion to help others, which inspires all who meet her. Her message of overcoming life’s difficulties through faith, awakening and hope in the Lord, resonate with all who are going through their own trials in life. Brenda’s love and support for her husband and family, along with her spiritual gifts and many talents, make her a dynamic woman God is using for Kingdom purpose!"

Joni Lamb

Co-Founder, Daystar Television Network

Brenda has so many talents and abilities. Not only is she an anointed speaker and singer, but she is an encourager to people. I consider her a friend and I have always felt a kindred spirit with her. I highly recommend her ministry and know she will always be a blessing wherever she goes.