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Author: Kaleathia Murphy

Turning Frustration into Action: How Your Words Can Make a Difference

It’s easy to complain about the state of the world. I’ve found myself frustrated by the things I see around me—social media filled with negativity, people hurting, and a culture that seems more divided than united. But then I realize: if I’m not doing anything to make it better, I’m just adding to the noise. If I don’t like what I see, I can choose to not engage with it or, better yet, post something that brings light into dark spaces.

One way to make a difference is by using my voice to encourage others. I can speak life into someone who’s struggling, offering hope in the middle of their storm. When someone feels unseen or overwhelmed, my words of encouragement might be the one thing that reminds them they’re not alone. A simple message like, “You’re doing better than you think,” can shift someone’s perspective and bring them a step closer to healing.

Another way is to offer insight when people are stuck in unfortunate situations. Maybe they’ve lost a job, ended a relationship, or feel like nothing is going right. Instead of watching them spiral, I can be the voice that says, “This is just a chapter, not the whole story.” Sharing my own journey of overcoming challenges shows that there is hope on the other side, and my testimony might inspire them to keep going.

Lastly, I can create change by being intentional about what I put out into the world. If I’m tired of seeing nonsense online, I can share something meaningful instead—a verse, a kind thought, or an uplifting message. My voice can be a light in spaces that often feel dark, bringing positivity and purpose into conversations that desperately need it. If we want to see change, it starts with what we choose to say and do.

From Struggle to Strength: Why You Shouldn’t Give Up

Sometimes, it feels like we’re stuck, swimming in circles, making no progress. I’m reminded of a story from The Slight Edge—two frogs trapped in a pail of cream. One frog gave up, exhausted, but the other kept swimming, refusing to quit. At first, it seemed pointless, but in the end, his persistence churned the cream into butter, allowing him to escape. What looked like endless struggle became his breakthrough.

This story has stayed with me, especially in seasons of adversity. I’ve learned that God uses our challenges to shape us. Just like that frog, we may feel like we’re going nowhere, but every bit of effort is producing something greater. Our struggles aren’t wasted; they’re the process through which God molds us into who we’re meant to be.

Trust that God has a purpose for your pain, a reason for your struggle, and a reward for your faithfulness. Don’t give up. You’re making something—something beautiful and lasting, even if you can’t see it yet. Keep going. Trust Him.

A new boldness

Recently, I found myself with a few old phone cases that were in great condition. So, I decided to go outside my door and ask everyone I saw what kind of phone they had. Many didn’t have the same model, but that didn’t stop us from chatting about other things. I met so many people and even finally found someone who had the same phone. Although she only took one of the four cases, I was thrilled that someone could use it. I couldn’t stop smiling—I was brimming from ear to ear.

This simple experience ignited something inside me. If I can go around offering used phone cases, why not share the gospel? This has given me a new kind of boldness and confidence in what I believe. It made me realize that sharing the good news can be as simple as starting a conversation. How can I be a follower of Jesus Christ and not share what He’s done in my life with others?

As I read the Gospels, I’m having a light bulb moment: I’m a disciple, and I should be making more disciples. Why has this just clicked for me? Isn’t this something new believers understand right away? The Gospels are the good news, and people need to hear it. My love for Christ makes me want to share everything I know and love about Him. He has changed me, and I’m so grateful. The least I can do is help build up His kingdom. I am a living, breathing example of His love and grace, and I’m ready to share that with the world.

You are the purpose

Have you ever wondered if God could really use you—the real you, not some idealized version? We are all unique, divinely crafted with a specific purpose. The beautiful truth is that you don’t have to search for your purpose; you are purpose. You were intentionally made to embody it, and because of that, you can trust that you will be used in extraordinary ways.

A pastor once said, “The work God does in you is infinitely greater than the works He does through you. That’s why you can trust He will do amazing things through you.” This resonates deeply with me. It’s a reminder that before we can be a vessel for God’s work, we must first understand and accept the purpose He has placed within us.

Consider people like Harriet Tubman, who believed so strongly in her God-given purpose that she risked her life to lead others to freedom. She wasn’t perfect, but she knew she was called to something greater, and she stepped up to fulfill that calling. Another example is Fred Rogers, who shared his purpose by nurturing the hearts and minds of children through his television show. He wasn’t trying to be anyone else; he simply embraced who he was and the purpose God had given him.

At this very moment, someone is waiting for you to step into your purpose. You don’t have to seek it because you are it. Everything in this world was created with a person in mind, and that includes you. It’s not about being perfect or having everything together; it’s about knowing that you are part of something greater. We all share in the responsibility of living out our purpose, and when we do, we can change the world.

So, don’t wait any longer. Embrace who you are, trust in the purpose God has placed within you, and step up. The world needs you just as you are.

Less is More: How Starting Fresh in California Redefined My Happiness.

You can start over as many times as you want. There aren’t any rules to life, and there’s nothing wrong with starting over. In fact, starting over is a fresh beginning, a new way to learn and grow. I’ve started over several times, and by now, I’d say I’m somewhat of an expert on the matter—not that I’m bragging, of course.

My latest “start over” was moving from Georgia to California. Yes, those two states are polar opposites, but that’s what I love most about it. I had no preconceived notions about California—it was like doing a blind taste test. I couldn’t base my expectations on anything I’d seen or heard; I just had to experience it for myself. Okay, I might have cheated a little—I did visit San Diego for a week and loved it so much that I told my husband to go back home and send my belongings because I wanted to stay. The newness of the place and the people excited me. Just imagining myself driving in a new area, getting lost, and discovering new things along the way brought a smile to my face. I guess you could say I’m a bit of a weirdo who gets excited about starting over from scratch.

Two years ago, we moved into a two-bedroom apartment and partially furnished it. Recently, we downsized to a studio apartment, 578 square feet of newness. Needless to say, we had to get rid of some things, but that didn’t bother me at all. In fact, I’m kind of living my dream of having less. We have just a handful of items now, and I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. This is less than I’ve ever had in my life, and I’m finally understanding the “less is more” concept. Having fewer possessions means more space for life’s adventures, and that’s something I’m excited to embrace.

The beautiful transformation in Jesus Christ

Lately, I’ve developed a fascination with butterflies, though I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that I used to be afraid of them. In my defense, they looked kind of scary to me. Sure, their wings are beautiful, but their bodies definitely screamed “insect,” and I’ve never been a fan of insects! To make matters worse, it always felt like they were following me—almost as if they knew I didn’t like them and were chasing me. Silly, I know, but that’s how I felt.

But despite my initial fear, I’ve become intrigued by butterflies, particularly by their metamorphosis. The transformation from a caterpillar into a butterfly is truly astounding. Every part of the caterpillar—the tissues, limbs, and organs—undergoes a complete change. The once earth-bound creature emerges with wings, vibrant colors, long legs, an antenna, and larger eyes. Even its mouth changes from one designed for chewing to one perfectly suited for sipping nectar. It’s remarkable how the butterfly also gains the ability to change its colors to blend into its surroundings, protecting itself from predators. What’s even more fascinating is that the butterfly retains the same nervous system it had as a caterpillar, meaning it carries memories from its previous life.

This metamorphosis reminds me of my own transformation in Jesus Christ. Just as the caterpillar is completely changed into something new, Jesus transforms us when we give our lives to Him. Our old self, with all its flaws and limitations, is reshaped into something beautiful and purposeful. In Christ, we become new creations, with new ways of thinking, seeing, and living. And just like the butterfly, we retain the memories of our past, but they no longer define us. Instead, they remind us of how far we’ve come and how much we’ve been transformed by His grace.

More than what we seem: becoming something spectacular

We are so much more than our jobs or the challenges we face. Our true essence goes beyond the roles we play or the circumstances we find ourselves in. Like the water hyacinth, an aquatic plant that thrives on the surface of water, we too have the potential to grow and bloom beautifully, even in unexpected places.

The water hyacinth is known for its rapid growth, often doubling in size within just two weeks. Its vibrant purple or blue flowers float gracefully on the water’s surface, a testament to its resilience and beauty. But this growth can also become invasive, blocking sunlight and depleting oxygen, causing harm to the very environment that sustains it.

This serves as a reminder that while growth is natural and necessary, it’s important to be mindful of how we grow and where we direct our energy. I believe something is happening in the atmosphere, a shift that I can’t quite see but deeply feel. It’s as if something wonderful is in the making, something that will transform me into the person I’m destined to be. I have faith that this journey will lead to something spectacular, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

So, as you navigate your own growth, remember to embrace it with wisdom and purpose. Trust in the process, even when you can’t see the full picture. Great things are on the horizon, and you are on the path to becoming something truly extraordinary.

Unwavering Strength: How My Husband Inspires Me Every Day

My husband is my real-life motivator. Every day, he gets up early and works as unto the Lord. How he keeps going, even through adversity, amazes me. He has vision in only one eye, and even that isn’t at its best right now. He recently had surgery to help improve it, but the healing process is slow and challenging. Despite the frustration, I still see him doing life with determination, working diligently and with great excellence.

He’s also my accountability partner. Everyone needs someone who will tell them the hard truths, and I trust him completely because I know he loves me. He wouldn’t say anything to intentionally hurt me; his words come from a place of love and compassion. I know that when he speaks, it’s to help me become a better person.

Marrying someone smarter than me might just be the best mistake I’ve ever made.

Where’s the fire?

I’ve been following Jesus for a long time, journeying through seasons of trials and victories. The beautiful thing about seasons is that they can change in an instant. Yet, through every shift and every challenge, my fire for Christ hasn’t been snuffed out. It’s almost impossible for it to be because Christ is the fire. This fire is within me, and wherever I go, it goes with me.

So, how does one get this fire? It’s not complicated. It’s given to those who believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins. That simple act of faith ignites a flame that can never be extinguished. It’s a gift—once given, it’s never taken away.

No matter what life throws at me, this fire remains. It’s a constant source of strength, guiding me through every season. And for that, I am forever grateful.

Everyone needs a Judas

I once heard a sermon titled “Everyone Needs a Judas.” At first, the idea seemed controversial. Why would anyone need a betrayer in their life? But as I grew in my faith and gained more life experience, the truth behind this message became clear. We all do, in fact, need a Judas to reach our purpose.

Adversity plays a crucial role in shaping us into who we are meant to be. Sometimes, it arrives in the form of betrayal, loss, or uncertainty—much like Jesus’ experience with Judas. Judas was not just any disciple; he was someone close to Jesus, trusted and beloved, who ultimately committed the ultimate betrayal. Yet, this wasn’t just a moment of treachery; it was a necessary step in the journey Jesus had to take. Without Judas, the path to the crucifixion—and ultimately, the fulfillment of Jesus’ purpose—wouldn’t have been the same.

Adversity often feels harsh and unfair. It strikes when we lack resources, when relationships falter, or when we face overwhelming uncertainty. In these moments, we might wonder how we will ever overcome, how we can possibly move forward when everything seems to be falling apart. But just as Jesus needed Judas to fulfill His destiny, we too need our own “Judas moments”—those seemingly insurmountable obstacles—to push us toward our true calling.

When it feels like you won’t make it through, remember that adversity is not the end. It’s a vital part of the journey that builds resilience, deepens faith, and clarifies our purpose. Like Jesus, we must face our own betrayals and hardships, not as setbacks, but as the very challenges that mold us into who we are meant to be.