C.R.E.A.M.

Christ Rules Everything Around Me. Yeah, yeah, I know we're familiar with the acronym standing for "Cash Rules Everything Around Me," but not around here. As a matter of fact, if you've ever said that, I want you to come out of agreement with it. Yes, I know it's catchy, and many of you reading this may still find it quite fitting for your current lifestyle. Do you feel like money governs your every move or Jesus? What does the fruit of your life reflect? Are you willing to do whatever it takes to make a dollar?

One way to answer these questions is to look at your current circumstances and take an audit.

Here are some questions to consider:

1. Do I find myself fixated on trying to figure out what I'm going to do concerning my finances?

2. Does the pressure of money consistently control my mind and mood?

3. Am I constantly hustling my way through?

If any of these resonate with you, then chances are money has you in a headlock, and you're highly likely to compromise to meet the need. Don't worry, I've been there, done that plenty of times. I have compromised a lot in the past for money. I've compromised my time, peace, morals, and health, but as I've continued to surrender to Christ, He has helped me gain my freedom back.

Money is such a touchy subject for many, especially if you're someone who doesn't have much. However, I'd like to remind you of something - money is a tool, not your god. Time and time again, I've watched money control the narrative in my life, as well as those around me. Can I remind you of something? It's not worth it. It's not worth the constant cycle of disrupted peace, poor health, drainage, or compromised behavior.

Jesus says in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." I encourage you today to release the burdens of not having enough. Seek first the kingdom of God. What is it that the Holy Spirit is telling you to do? Have you taken the time to ask, or are you worrying and stressing instead?

Today, I encourage you to seek first the kingdom.

1. Release the heaviness that comes with the stress. Release the worry, doubt, and fear before the Lord.

2. Repent for putting money in His place (whether intentional or not).

3. Worship Him. Exalt His name and spend time in gratitude.

4. Ask what your strategy is and YIELD to what the Holy Spirit tells/shows you.

   
   

I know we like to skip 1-3 and jump to 4. Honestly, you may find that you don't even ask God for the strategy; instead, you cry, worry, and complain to Him. Believe it or not, those steps are more important than the strategy. Why? Because it's where humility, dependency, intimacy, and trust reside. It's time to break the cycle and step into your authority. MONEY IS NOT YOUR GOD.

Next Monday, I will be diving into C.R.E.A.M. Part II 🗞

With love,

Dejáh