Tag: Freedom

Stop People Pleasing

People Pleasing – Sigh. It can become quite overwhelming to complete a task list while simultaneously pleasing everyone and maintaining a level head (I’ve tried it). Being tugged in many different ways, without consulting God first will prove unsuccessful every time. “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or…

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Don’t Go Hungry

“Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom) Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to…

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Obedience Produces Fruit

I started thenikaocollection.com out of obedience. But, the more I write, the more I realize this obedience continues to feed my own spirit. Periodically during my quiet time, God will lead me to re-read a recent post or one from years ago. As I read these messages, new revelation flows and my spirit is refreshed.…

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Prepare for Elevation

From uncomfortable situations to joyous occasions, everything we encounter is intentional. As we continue to live out God’s will for our lives, situation after situation will prepare us for continued elevation. However, if we hide our purpose, or become lazy in fulfilling our purpose, God has nothing to elevate. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by…

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When Life Hits Hard

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9 NIV) When life hits hard, I…

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Push Yourself

Scripture Reading: Matthew 25:14-30 God has entrusted you with a particular purpose according to your ability. No, it will not be fulfilled perfectly or painlessly. But, with faith and consistency, it will be worth it. The world is waiting earnestly for you to just be you. “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing…

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Pause

Here in Wisconsin, as the snow makes its arrival, I’m alarmed that it is already Fall. With each passing day, I find myself increasingly aware that one day I won’t experience these seasons any longer. My clock will stop ticking, and what I have done up until that point will be all I have to…

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Don’t Go Alone

I’m one of those people who can’t drive in thunderstorms. When the clouds open, all my driving experience goes out the window. My hands become a sweaty mess, my speed decreases dramatically, and I wish there was a turbo level on the windshield wipers. My friend, on the other hand, excels in storm driving. He…

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Yes, You

If you’re reading this, God loves you. Yes, even the parts you deem irrelevant, irreparable and/or irritating. God made you – all of you. Your strengths have purpose. Your flaws have purpose. Your experiences have purpose. So, don’t hide who you are from the world (Luke 8:16). Be authentic with God and with those around…

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Irrational Fears

I have an irrational fear that one day my car will flip over a bridge I seldom take home from work. I fear falling in the water below and leaning on superwoman tricks as my only way out. So, I avoid that highway – even though some days it gives me a quicker commute. The…

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