Tag: Purpose

Your Mission

Today’s a new day! A lesson learned along this journey: God doesn’t care about your position—He cares about your mission. 

Your position might get applause. 

Your mission will change lives. 

I thought I was built for running many miles and sharing the Gospel. Turns out, I was actually built for running after and winning souls for Jesus. God rerouted my journey -not to punish me, but to prepare me. He took the dreams I had and gave me a purpose I never saw coming. And let me tell you, it’s louder, richer, and more eternal than any finishing medal I ever ran after. 

So if life has benched you, broken you, or blindsided you—don’t panic. That’s often where the mission begins. God specializes in turning detours into destiny. He’ll shift your position to align you with the very people who need your story, your scars, and your strength. 

Joseph didn’t stay in the pit. 

I didn’t throw in the towel. 

And you won’t stay stuck either. 

Your mission is still active. 

Your calling is still valid. 

And your impact is still unfolding. 

Don’t chase titles or medals. Chase truth. 

Don’t pursue applause. Pursue purpose. 

Because when you walk in your mission, you don’t just win—you help others rise up.

And that, my friend, is the real purpose for living. 

 A Scripture Reflection: 

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” — Proverbs 19:21 

A Word of Encouragement: 

Your mission is always possible. Even when the position changes, the purpose remains. Keep walking. Keep trusting. God’s not done. ~OC

***You can check out the Spoken Word version at my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music.

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Rejection

Today’s a new day! What if rejection is God’s redirection? It’s a thought that can be tough to swallow in the moment, but it’s one that can bring a sense of peace and purpose to our lives. Think about it – we’ve all been there, pouring our hearts and souls into something, only to have it rejected. It’s like, what’s the point? But what if that rejection wasn’t a dead end, but a detour to something better? Something that aligns with our true calling or purpose.

Here are some familiar names that faced rejection along their journeys: 

Walt Disney was fired from one of his first animation jobs at Kansas City Star in 1919, because he “lacked imagination and had no good ideas.”

After a performance at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, Elvis was told by the concert hall manager that he was better off returning to Memphis and driving trucks (his former career). 

Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest NBA player of all time, was cut from his high school basketball team. He went on to win six championships. He also has a pretty famous shoe. 

Steve Jobs, was publicly fired from Apple, the company he created, in his 30s before returning years later to make it one of the world’s most valuable and well known companies.

 Harland Sanders, better known as Colonel Sanders and the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, was fired from a variety of jobs before he started his chicken business. 

And finally Jesus, rejected by his own people, was ultimately raised to be the Savior of humanity. 

Each of these stories show us that rejection isn’t the end; it’s often the beginning of a new chapter, one that God has been guiding us towards all along. So next time you face rejection, take a deep breath and ask yourself, “What if this is God’s way of redirecting me to something amazing?” ~OC

***If you would like to hear this in a Spoken Word, please check out my YouTube Channel at Todd E. Shoemaker Music.

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Change

Today’s a new day! As we walk through this journey called life, we’re gonna face change – it’s inevitable. But it’s how we respond to those changes that matters. We can choose to move forward with positivity and lessons learned, or stay stuck in the past. The choice is ours. 

Change can be scary, it can be tough

But God’s got a plan, it’s time to trust

Let go of what’s behind and grab hold of what’s next

‘Cause when we move forward, that’s when we’ll be blessed

Staying stuck won’t change the past

But moving forward will shape our future fast

God’s got amazing plans, don’t miss out on the view

Keep your eyes on Him, and the path will unfold anew

So when change comes knocking, don’t be afraid

Open the door, let God’s goodness be displayed

He’s got a purpose, He’s got a plan

Keep moving forward, you’ll see God’s hand.

It’s our choice how we navigate change. Let’s choose to trust God and move forward with faith. ~OC

***If you would like to hear this post done in Spoken Word, check it out at my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music

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In The Stillness

Today’s a new day! In the rush of this journey called life, our greatest act of strength can be the choice to be still. By taking just a few minutes each morning to just sit and have a few moments of stillness, reflection and prayer, before we run out the door to start our day. These quiet moments are not an escape, but a homecoming to the peace that already lives within each of us.

As we sit in the stillness of prayer, reading, or simple gratitude, we can soften the edges of our own hearts so that we may truly hear the whispers of grace. When we hush our own noise, we truly allow God to lead the way.

May our mornings be a gentle dawn for our souls. 

May we find the quiet strength to listen before we speak, 

May the peace we find in those early hours of the morning, carry us through the day with a light and open heart. 

Today, I am praying each of you experiences the  grace and peace of God in every area of your lives. Take the time to be Still. ~OC

****If you would like to hear the Spoken Word of this post, go to my YouTube channel at Todd E. Shoemaker Music.

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The World Wonders

The world looks at my health, wonders how I’m still alive

Faces scream, “This man should not be alive”

But I point to heaven, say, “God’s not finished with me yet”

My assignment’s not complete, got a purpose to fulfill, you see

Doctors shake their heads, wonder how I’m not depressed

I smile and say, “It’s God’s grace, I’m blessed”

They ask me what’s my secret, how I keep pushing on

I say, “It’s my support system, and choosing to let go”

I choose not to let the negative parts take control

I choose to rise above, let my spirit soar

I’m not defined by my health, I’m defined by my God

He’s the One who’s keeping me, I’m not done yet, I’m on the move

I tell ’em about my wife, my family, my friends

They’re the ones who keep me grounded, keep me on my feet, till the end

And every day I choose to focus on the positives of this journey,

Not the limitations, but the possibilities, God’s got me alive

I point to the sky, say, “It’s only by God’s grace”

That I’m not bawled up under the covers somewhere, lost in a daze,

But I’m still standing, I’m still speaking, I’m still moving forward

‘Cause God’s not done with me, my assignment’s not complete, I’m still on the road

I refuse to let the old man in. ~OC

*****If you would like to hear and see this post done in Spoken Word, please check it out at my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music

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Lessons From The Rain

As I sit here listening to the rain outside, I’m reminded of the powerful lessons God teaches us through the rain. It’s a reminder that life’s storms can be cleansing, refreshing, and even necessary for growth.

In Psalm 51:7, David prays, “Wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Just like rain washes away dirt and grime, God’s forgiveness cleanses us from our sins.

In Matthew 5:45, Jesus says, “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” Rain is a reminder of God’s universal love and provision, nourishing all of creation regardless of our deeds.

And in Isaiah 55:10-11, “As the rain and snow come down from heaven… so shall my word be… accomplishing what I desire.” Rain teaches us about the effectiveness and power of God’s word in our lives.

Let the rain be a reminder of God’s love, cleansing, and provision in your life. ~OC

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Break Free

Today’s a new day! We have all been there – stuck in the quicksand of guilt, replaying our worst decisions on loop. But here’s the truth: our past doesn’t define us. Not even our worst mistake has the power to dictate our future. Why? Because when we ask for forgiveness and turn it over to God, it’s like a divine delete button – everything’s wiped clean.

The Bible’s got some powerful verses that drive this home:

Psalm 103:12, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” God doesn’t just move the goalpost; He blows it up and creates a whole new game.

Romans 8:1. “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” You’re not your worst decision. You’re a child of God, redeemed and free.

Isaiah 43:25, “I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” God’s got a forgetfulness problem – He chooses not to remember your sins. Mind blowing! 

So, what’s holding us back? We cannot let guilt anchor us to our yesterday. We’ve been forgiven, redeemed, and set free. Now, let’s go live the life God has planned for us. ~OC

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Soar!

Today’s a new day!

You were created to fly,

Don’t let the darkness clip your wings,

You were meant to rise above,

Like an eagle, you’re designed to thrive.

Listen, you’ve got a fire in your soul,

A spark that flickers, a flame that makes you whole.

Don’t let the haters, don’t let the doubts creep in,

You’re a difference maker, let your spirit win.

God created you unique, a masterpiece divine,

Don’t hide your light, let it shine.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.

Comfort zone’s a cozy place to stay,

But growth happens when you step out into the day.

The winds of change, they may shake your world,

But you’re anchored in faith, you’ll find your way.

You’ve got a voice, use it, let it be heard,

A message of hope, in a world that’s blurred.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.

Fear’s a liar, it’s a heavy chain,

But faith’s the key, it’s the weight that remains.

You were made for more, don’t settle for less,

You’re a world changer, let your dreams possess.

The sky’s not the limit, it’s just the view,

You’re destined for greatness, let it be true.

Spread your wings and soar,

Like an eagle, rise above the fray,

You’re meant to fly, don’t be afraid,

Stretch out your wings, let your spirit be displayed.~OC

***You can watch a Spoken Word of this writing on my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music.

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Walking Through The Storms of Life: The Power of Prayer

Life’s trials can be overwhelming, but prayer is a lifeline that connects us to God’s presence and peace. When we’re walking through tough times, prayer reminds us we’re not alone.

Prayer doesn’t always change our circumstances, but it changes us. It shifts our perspective, calms our hearts, and gives us strength to keep going. In the midst of uncertainty, prayer brings clarity and peace.

Through prayer, we:

– Bring our struggles to God, who understands and cares

– Find comfort in God’s presence, even when things don’t make sense

– Tap into God’s strength when ours is gone

– Align our hearts with God’s purposes, even in the darkness

Prayer is a conversation, not a monologue. It’s a chance to talk to God and listen to His voice. ~OC

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Beyond the Chaos

Today’s a new day! My heart breaks for America,

Turn on the news and all I see is chaos,

A country divided, fractured and torn.

I don’t care if you voted left, right, or somewhere in between,

If your heart’s not breaking for the hurt and pain we see,

You might need to check your pulse and see if you’re still alive.

We scream and we shout, we dig in our heels,

But the truth is, we’re dying, we’re losing our way.

We’re so busy building walls, we’re forgetting to build bridges,

We’re so busy pointing fingers, we’re forgetting to hold hands.

Dear God, please help America come together,

Put away our differences, and actually live

Like the United States of America.

Help us see the humanity in each other,

Help us hear the cries of the broken and the pain.

Help us love like You loved, with a love that’s radical and true,

A love that unites, a love that heals, a love that’s new.

We need a revival, a awakening,

A return to compassion, to empathy, to love.

We need to see each other, not as enemies, but as brothers and sisters,

United in our struggles, in our hopes, in our dreams.

Let’s rise up, let’s rise above,

The noise, the hate, the fear, the pride.

Let’s be the change, let’s be the love,

That America needs, that the world needs, that we all need today. ~OC

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