Views Don’t Determine Value

One of the things I’ve enjoyed about blogging, is seeing how my words reach more viewers and encourage more people. It fills my heart with joy to see the numbers move up each time. What I didn’t realize however, was how much value I attached to the number of viewers reading my work. Until my last entry.

My last entry, “Freedom Frees,” spoke about how freedom in Christ comes from the power of the Holy Spirit. Compared to my other blog posts, no one really read this one and I took it to heart. I started thinking, “maybe I’m not a good writer anymore and it was all just a fluke.”

After a few minutes of self-pity, the Holy Spirit prompted me to reread my last blog entry. I did and it was good! The Holy Spirit then said to me “views do not determine value. When something is of God, it’s always valuable.” Not only did this revelation speak to this situation but to other times when I did what God wanted me to do but the success didn’t match up the way I expected. A perfect example is with the first book I wrote.

The first book I ever wrote was a book that the Lord laid on my heart to write. When I was given this divine instruction, I didn’t know what my subject matter was going to be, but the Lord told me that the book was already in me and all I had to do was pick up the pen and write.

Prior to receiving this word from the Lord, I wasn’t a writer. I had been making my living as a personal trainer for 8 years and writing was something I struggled with until college. Needless to say I was skeptical about my writing abilities, but I trusted God not to lie. So I prayed, picked up the pen and paper, and wrote what ended up being the first 20 pages of my testimony of how I came to Christ. The Lord gave me a word and proved to me that the book was indeed inside of me.

Later down the line, I received prophetic words about becoming a New York Times Best Selling author, and not only did I believe them, but I assumed that things would pane out seamlessly. Long story short, that hasn’t been the case. My book hasn’t been doing the numbers that I thought it was supposed to and I began to doubt its value.

But as the Holy Spirit reminded me recently, God sets the value on things NOT man. So if God says it’s good, then you KNOW it's good. And if God gives you a word that something will come to pass, you know it will, no matter what it looks like.

When you recognize that your worth and value aren’t based on the worldly praise you receive, you’re free to create and share things with a much firmer foundation. Be encouraged!

Til’ next time adieu.

Freedom Frees

During my quiet time with the Lord, I was praying about what my next blog post should be, and the Lord gave me the title “Freedom Frees.” At first I didn’t understand what this title meant, but the Lord later revealed to me that “Freedom in Christ Jesus has the power to free people.”

When you think of freedom, what comes to mind? For me, it’s chains breaking, flying, and taking a huge, unrestricted deep breath. If asked to define freedom, I would say that it means being unbound by any oppression or oppressive force. In Christ however, I’m learning that true freedom is marked by a life fully surrendered and yielded to the Holy Spirit. In other words, the Holy Spirit is freedom.

How is the Holy Spirit freedom? Well, this is a fact that I’m still working out for myself, but I’ll share with you what I know so far.

The Holy Spirit makes us better. Where sin and iniquity would keep us constantly fallen to poor choices and poor decision-making, the Holy Spirit raises us up to a greater standard and brings forth the best version of ourselves in every situation.

The Holy Spirit gives us insight and wisdom through our obedience. I can’t tell you how many times following the directions of the Holy Spirit without questioning Him, resulted in incredible blessings. I’ll give you an example.

There was a time, shortly after my mother passed, that the Holy Spirit told me to call my grandmother. Now I love my grandmother, but I was at a point in my grieving process where I didn’t feel like talking or engaging with anyone. Despite this however, I was obedient and yielded to the nudging of the Holy Spirit to call her. The result was an enriching conversation that included memories of my mother in her youth that I had no idea about, but blessed me upon hearing them. Listening to the Holy Spirit allowed my soul to be fed in the way that Jesus knew I needed.

The Holy Spirit empowers us to tell the truth and shame the devil. It is this freedom from shame and regret that allows us to set other people free. Letting the Holy Spirit work in us and on our behalf, transforms us from the broken people we all start off as. When we are no longer bound by the oppression of our sins/vices/shortcomings or whatever it is that was holding us down, we can share openly how we arrived at our healing. In fact, we have the desire to!

I’d like to encourage anyone reading this who is in search of freedom. True freedom comes from a life surrendered to the Holy Spirit. When you relinquish control over your life to the One who knows you best, you find that you always have access to the best version of yourself, your needs (known and unknown) are met, you lead with love, and that you’re always in peace.

Til’ next time adieu!

Explore The Rich History & Culture Of Stunning Greece. Find Fun And Interesting Things To Do

Greece is a perfect amalgamation of rich historical mythologies and modernity. The country is surrounded by historical monuments that are carved intricately. Greece is renowned for its stunning architecture, sandy beaches, sultry climate, delicious food and some fascinating legends. It has something to offer everyone and is perfect whether you are looking for a getaway with a group of friends, with your families or a romantic escape into the Balkans. The country is packed with interesting things to do and fun places to visit. We have thoroughly researched and curated some of the best things to do in Greece.

Explore The Iconic Acropolis

This renowned structure in Athens is an inevitable part of the history of Greece. This monument was dedicated to the goddess of Athens, Athena and is carved beautifully and intricately. While exploring Acropolis you can sense the opulence reflected in the architecture and cannot help but be mesmerized by the creativity of the artisans. Acropolis is situated in the heart of Athens and has three famous temples dedicated to Greek gods and goddesses.

Learn About The History Of Greece At The Acropolis Museum This is one of the most visited tourists places in Athens, it has ultra-modern and chic architecture. The museum consists of ancient artifacts dating back to as early as the 6th Century. The museum displays the archeological finds that give you a sneak peek into the culture and living of Athens in that era. Moschophoros, is a male figurine that is holding a calf on his shoulder and Caryatids, is a female figurine that was believed to have held up the Erechtheion. The most talked-about exhibit are the marbles from Parthenon.

Relax In The Scenic Corfu

Corfu is considered to be one of the most stunning and beautiful destinations in Greece. It is situated on the coast of the Lonian Sea. Corfu town is surrounded by rugged coastline, glistening turquoise waters and a breathtaking view. It is also a place where you can slow down, relax and unwind on Paleokastrista beach. You cannot help but get enchanted by this picturesque town, there are many charming cafes by the beach offering you some delicious and authentic Greek Cuisine.

Visit The Picturesque Santorini

This is one of the most famous destinations in Greece and is known for its cobalt blue tops of the town Fira and Oia which are situated by the west coast. The buildings in Santorini are whitewashed giving you a feel straight out of a movie. You can relax and laze around on the breathtaking beaches and indulge in some delicious food with a stunning backdrop from every nook and corner of this city.

COVID Restrictions For Travelers

1) The government in Greece has taken strict measures to minimize and contain the spread of COVID-19 and for that, on your arrival, you need to show your negative PCR report less than 72 hours, a negative rapid antigen test not less than 48 hours and a certificate that shows your vaccination status, which is mandatory for every tourist.

2) When you arrive in Greece you will be asked to show a complete "Passenger Locator Form" which you will need to fill online.

3) There is time restriction all around the country and it is advised for all the tourists to abide by the rules and guidelines diligently. There is a mandatory requirement of the mask at every public place you visit.

Greece is one of the safest countries to travel to, the people are warm, friendly and joyous. If you are planning to visit Greece then you will surely fall in love with the beauty and rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country.

Visit mypwen.org to book your Greece Vacation or any other travel needs you may have.