Look forward to a new chapter in your life.
Aman who had recently purchased a large piece of property was raking leaves in front of his new farmhouse. Since he had bought the property earlier that year, the man didn’t realize how many fallen leaves there were to clean up on the grounds.
Hours passed, and the man began to get tired of raking and stacking the piles of leaves, as the task was daunting. The closer he got to finishing, the more difficult became the chore.
While he was toiling, the man heard his dog barking. Two neighborhood boys walking through the swirling autumn leaves carrying rakes approached him and asked, “Sir, would you like us to rake your leaves?”
The man shook his head, “No thank you.” But the boys persisted, “We will only charge ten dollars.”
Yet, once again, the man declined by saying, “Well, I am halfway done, so I’m going the rake the rest of the leaves myself.”
Then, as the boys turned to leave the property, one of them declared, “Actually, that is why we asked, because most of our business comes from people who are half through with their task and feel like quitting.” At what point do you stop? Perhaps you feel as though you’ve failed at everything you have tried and your life is going nowhere. Maybe you had your share of challenges, and you’re using that as justification to stay where you are now. Stuck in neutral, you still have dreams and goals within your heart that you’d like to accomplish, but because nothing has worked out in the past, you’re fearful to even attempt to try again. But no matter what the situation looks like: no matter what you’ve gone through or what has happened in the past, God has not forgotten about anything that He has promised you. Hence, persevere, keep trying, and continue on towards your goal. It is not over for you. It’s not finished. The dreams of your heart can be a few steps around the bend.
There’s a quote I like that says: “When the world says, ‘Give up,’ hope whispers, ‘Try it one more time.’” Author unknown
I remember when a business associate of mine, Steve, suddenly lost his long-standing management job. He went to work one Thursday morning as usual, and was told on the spot from the vice president of the company that his job would be given to someone else. This news came as a complete shock to Steve, as he had worked 15-hour days, was loyal and led the company for years in sales success.
When Steve returned home, he was distraught and walked around his house for an hour wondering, “What do I do now?” and “Is my career over?”
Although Steve had every reason to feel sorry for himself as his firing made absolutely no logical sense, he stayed strong in faith and decided not to complain or have a “pity party.” Nor, did he harbor bitterness towards those who had wronged him. “I’m going to let it go and let God take care of it,” Steve uttered to himself, refusing to let doubt, fear or anger creep into his heart. For
Steve knew that if you allow negativity to consume you, you may become so discouraged that you can get yourself into a situation that’s not in your best interest.
Soon thereafter, Steve’s telephone started ringing with calls of support and encouragement. And because of his great reputation, potential new employers phoned him to set up meetings.
Two weeks later, Steve accepted the job of his dreams. The position was closer to his home, with a better salary and benefits. Moreover, after one year, the owner of the company decided that he was going to retire. He didn’t have any family members that could take over the business, so he offered Steve an opportunity to buy into the company. Rather than working for a company, Steve ended up owning the company! Steve said, “There are a lot of things that happen beyond your control. But if you have faith in God, do the right thing and continue to persevere, opportunities will present themselves.”
Hence, don’t give up on anything. You have immeasurable potential, so do not be impoverished in your spirit and lose your enthusiasm. God created you to win. Be strong and confident. And put your trust in God and in what He can do. One plan may not have worked out, but God has better plans for you. For He is “able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” (Ephesians 3:20).
So start expecting God to surprise you and to do something significant in your life. Be expecting to excel, to fulfill your dreams and reach your highest potential. In 1928, Sir Alexander Fleming discovered the potent, infection-fighting agent, penicillin. He wasn’t even looking for it, but he kept on persisting and by chance, he found a miracle cure. Thus, don’t stop. Your breakthrough could come today, this week, or next month.
At our home, we have lots of precious animals; cats, dogs, bunnies, and fish… and we call each of them by their name. God knows you by name, too. You matter greatly to Him, for your name is on God’s hand. “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.” (Isaiah 49:16)
With God on your side, you cannot be defeated. You can defy the odds and accomplish the impossible. God is with you, lovingly guiding you to great things. And a full life is still in front of you.
Look forward to a new chapter in your life.
Catherine Galasso-Vigorito’s nationally syndicated weekly column, “A New You,” has endeared her to readers across the country for over 15 years. In addition, Catherine is featured on television and radio where she inspires viewers and listeners by offering inspirational commentary, home decorating and entertaining ideas, plus DIY segments. She is the bestselling author of three books: A New You, God Will Do the Rest, and The Open Window. As a designer, her gift lines have been featured on QVC and she is a former Miss Connecticut USA.