Dare to pray and watch what God will do

Don’t let anything or anybody rob you of your future. God created you to have wings, to rise above your circumstances. And He has success and happiness in store for you.

In my first book,

“A New

You: Words to Soothe the Mind, Body, and Spirit,” I told a story that I had once heard about a little fish swimming in the vast blue ocean.

The tiny fish was listless and weak as he huddled near the big coral reef. Then a large, mighty fish swam past him, concerned, “What is the matter, little fish?” he asked. “Is there anything I can do to help you?”

The little fish wearily replied, “I am so tired and thirsty.”

“Well,” said the big fish, “Start by taking a nice, long drink of cool water, and surely you will feel better and get your strength back.”

The little fish quickly answered, “Oh no, I can’t! I just can’t!”

“But why?” questioned the big fish.

“I do not want to drink too much water,” said the little fish, “because I am afraid it will all run out!”

“Run out!” exclaimed the big fish. “Run out! That’s a good one. This is the Atlantic Ocean. Run out! Ha ha ha,” laughed the big fish as he swam away.

This story illustrates that we live way below our privileges. God has given us abundant blessings, and as His children, we are heirs to all.

Yet, maybe you have been through trials that tested your self-worth to the maximum and left you feeling you have absolutely no value. But what you are facing right now is not too big for God to work together for good. He created the heavens and the earth, so He can certainly help you.

So, step out of the ordinary and step into the extraordinary. Do not dwell on the stumbling blocks that could be before you or let temporary circumstances distract you. You can prevail over obstacles placed in your way by staying extremely focused on your goals.

Don’t let anything or anybody rob you of your future. God created you to have wings, to rise above your circumstances. And He has success and happiness in store for you.

God sees your capabilities; He knows where you’ve been and what you can become. Thus, keep believing and reach beyond where you are now, not being afraid to aspire to the highest and best.

A while back, I was at my daughter’s school, sitting on a blanket while watching a field hockey game. One particular player caught my eye. The girl was a bold and feisty player. However, she was quite petite in stature.

The other girls on the team were at least 5 feet tall, and some much taller, while this girl was probably about 4 feet 3 inches. Still, the assertive and fearless girl was clearly one of the best players on the team.

A few minutes later, the girl made a goal. Then, I saw and overheard a spectator who was sitting on a lawn chair nearby me point to her and say, “It’s the attitude, not the size, that matters.” And I agree!

Like the petite girl, you may be “a little fish” in “a big ocean.” And perhaps the odds against success are staggering, and the dream is seemingly impossible.

But somehow, some way, it can happen because God specializes in using unlikely people in out-of-the ordinary ways to accomplish His great purpose.

Try this: Close your eyes and picture a place you are longing to be, a dream that you may have discarded. You’re never too young or too old to create new goals, a new occupation or new endeavors. The potential for growth is limitless at any age.

Do not underestimate your God-given talents, for you are so valuable. God has placed within you gifts that can be used to bless the world. Dare to pray, take a chance in faith and watch in awe what God will do for you. Nothing is impossible for God.

• Have you been told it is too late to achieve your goals? Grandma Moses, an American folk artist, began her painting career in her 70s and was still painting at 100 years old.

• Do you think you don’t have the finances to make your God-given dream a reality? Mother Angelica, a Catholic Franciscan nun, founded Eternal Word Television Network with just $200, which now reaches more than 100 million viewers and countries around the world.

• Did you encounter some failures in the past? Thomas Edison failed in over 300 experiments before he discovered the right type of filament for the electric light bulb.

• Do you feel you have physical imitations? Beethoven, who was deaf, continued to compose masterpieces, conduct and perform as he heard within himself some of the greatest music the world has ever known.

• Did you have a devastating situation transpire in your life? Nelson Mandela emerged from 27 years of imprisonment. But his outstanding compassion and humanity shone as brightly as when he went in, enduring adversity with purpose and determination.

• Have you experienced overwhelming setbacks? Abraham Lincoln became the 16th president of the United States after countless personal tragedies, setbacks and failures.

These individuals stepped out in faith and overcame their challenges. And as we go forth serving others, we will see our gifts begin to grow, for inspiration and creativity come when we are full of desire to enrich someone else’s life.

Heaven-sent strength and the touch of the Supreme Creator are given to those with such a desire.

You have a special role in God’s plan and a great purpose to fulfill. Therefore, always know how very special you are as there is no one else like you. Perhaps you’re in the midst of a challenge, but allow me to encourage you:

“You are a child of God,” “Your value is beyond measure,” “You are capable and significant,” “Good things are in store for your future,” “You deserve the best,” and “God delights in you.”

Remember, God loves you with a love that extends far beyond any human love. Nothing is impossible for God. And He can use anyone who is willing, as you let Him lead the way.

Keep a faith-filled, expectant attitude, and, soon, you’ll see the hand of God move in your life.

Email Catherine GalassoVigorito at cgv@anewyouworldwide.com. To order a copy of her new book, “The Open Window, 8 Weeks to Creating an Extraordinary Life,” visit www.anewyouworldwide.com or bookstores nationwide. Follow Catherine on Instagram @Catherinegalassovigorito.