Sometimes we just need to be honest.We complain too much.

It’s easy, isn’t it?The traffic was bad, the boss was unfair, the house is too small the kids are too loud, the bills are too high, the aches won’t go away.

Before long, we’re walking around with a spirit of complaining – muttering, sighing, snapping, frowning.

We forget.

We forget the stories that God gave us in His Word.We forget about Job.Can You Imagine Being Job?

One day, life was good, riches, respect, a beautiful family, health, happiness. Then, in a blink, it was gone.

Imagine this:A servant runs up panting, “Your oxen and donkeys are gone, the raiders took them. Your workers are dead.”

Before he finishes, another rushes in.”Fire fell from heaven. Your sheep are burned up — more servants dead.”

Another.”Chaldeans attacked, your camels are gone – more killed.”

And then, a final messenger – the worst news of all: “Your sons and daughters were feasting …… the house collapsed … they are all gone.”

All of them.Can you hear the wail that must have left Job’s mouth?

Can you feel the punch to his gut? Can you imagine the floor giving way beneath him? Can you taste the bitter salt of his tears?

And Then…As if that weren’t enough, sores.Painful, oozing, relentless sores covering his body from head to toe.

His wife, broken and bitter herself, says:”Curse God and die.”

Friends arrive, but instead of comfort, they bring accusations.”Surely you did something wrong, Job. This must be your fault.”Grief. Pain. Loss. Loneliness. Physical agony. Shame. Misunderstood.That was Job’s reality.

There’s something that we often overlook – the backstory to Job’s barrage of pain. In Job 1:6-12, we’re given a rare glimpse behind the curtain of the heavenly realm. Satan himself comes before God, and there’s a conversation about Job.God speaks highly of Job:”Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” (Job 1:8) And then Satan answers, cynically, “Does Job fear God for nothing? Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” (Job 1:9-11)

The conversation that follows is mind-blowing.God gives Satan permission to test Job. But He places limits – Satan can take everything from Job, but he cannot touch Job’s life.This isn’t just random suffering.It’s a divine agreement, a test of faith.And here’s the kicker: Job never knew about this heavenly exchange.He didn’t know why he was suffering.He didn’t know what was at stake.But God knew.And God allowed it.

Now, About Us…And here we are…Upset because we had to wait in line.Murmuring because the paycheck wasn’t what we wanted…Angry because someone didn’t text us back…Discouraged because the house isn’t big enough.

Really? Could you please make your complaining make sense?…shaking your head now huh? That’s what I thought!

Before we open our mouths to complain again, we need to remember Job.He tore his robe. He fell to the ground.And do you know what he said? “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” (Job 1:21)

Praised.Not blamed.Not cursed.Not complained against.

We need this wake-up call today: Stop complaining.

Life may be hard. Yes….You may be hurting. Yes…It may feel unfair. Yes.

But complaining poisons your spirit.It dishonors God.It blinds you to His grace….yes, you read right! Once you turn on the complaining switch, suddenly you no longer see all the blessings. You become immediately blind to the positive aspects of your life. You know I am right!

Let us learn from Job.

Worship instead of whining.Trust instead of tantrums.Praise instead of pouting.You think you have it hard?

Look again.Let this truth sink deep:”In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.” (Job 1:22) Now, how about us?

Your Turn to Reflect

Pause for a moment.
Look around your life.

What are you complaining about?
What words have you spoken this week that dishonored God?
What ungrateful attitudes have you allowed to settle in your heart?

Stop.
Breathe.
Repent if needed.

Then choose today, literally, not theoretically, to stop the cycle of complaining.

Choose gratitude.
Choose trust.
Choose praise, like Job.

Because someone out there is watching your response.

If this post spoke to you, I encourage you to share it with someone who may need this wake-up call. Let’s be a generation that worships through hardship –  not whines through it.

Remembering Lot’s Wife

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

Have you ever felt stuck? Like you know God is calling you to move forward into something new, better, , more fulfilling, but part of you just can’t let go of what’s behind? You want to take the step, but your heart keeps pulling you back, to the past, to what you know, even if it’s not good for you anymore.

If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. The Bible gives us a heartbreaking, powerful example in the story of Lot’s wife. It’s a moment so brief, yet so full of meaning, that it still echoes through time and speaks directly to our souls.

In Genesis 19:26, it says, “But Lot’s wife, behind him, looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.” Just like that. Her story is a cautionary tale, but it’s also a mirror. One that shows us the cost of looking back when God says move forward.

Let’s pause here for a moment. What really happened?

God was destroying the city of Sodom because of its wickedness. Lot and his family were told to escape, run for their lives, and not look back. Yet, Lot’s wife looked back. In that moment, she became frozen, yes she literally turned into a pillar of salt. Why? Because her heart wasn’t fully ready to let go. She was holding on to something behind her, and it cost her everything.

That moment feels so relatable, doesn’t it? Maybe you aren’t facing destruction like Sodom’s, but life still calls us to move on – to leave behind old patterns, relationships, practices, or fears. Yet part of us is still looking back, nostalgic for what was, afraid of what might be, or unsure if we can really step into the new.

The Danger of Looking Back

The Bible’s warning is clear. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul says, “But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize…” This is a powerful call to focus forward, not backward.

When we look back, we risk becoming frozen – unable to move forward, stuck in fear, regret, or comfort zones that hold us captive. Lot’s wife’s fate symbolizes how looking back can trap us in the past.

Sometimes, we look back because it feels safer. The past, even if painful or toxic, is familiar. The unknown future is scary. Maybe we look back to people who hurt us but who we miss, or to dreams we gave up on. Or maybe we look back because we can’t forgive or forget.

But God’s message is different. In Isaiah 43:18-19, He says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” God is inviting us to leave the past behind and embrace the new things He is doing.

Why We Hold On, and How to Let Go

Why do we hold on? Because the past has roots in our identity. It shapes who we think we are. Sometimes it’s painful roots, comfortable roots and familiar routines, even if they aren’t good for us.But the truth is, our identity is not in the past. It’s in Christ.

In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” You’re not who you used to be. You’re not defined by past mistakes or failures, or even by the places you came from. God’s call is clear: Move forward.

It doesn’t mean you erase your history. It means you don’t live there anymore. You carry your lessons, your growth, your scars, but you don’t let them keep you stuck.

How to Keep Moving Forward Without Looking Back

So how do we do it? How do we stop being like Lot’s wife and start walking confidently into the new things God has for us?

1. Trust God’s plan for your future.
Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.” When you trust God’s good plans, it’s easier to release the past.

2. Keep your eyes on Jesus.
Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” When you focus on Jesus—the author of your story—you don’t need to look back because you know He’s leading you forward.

3. Pray for strength to let go.
Let God help you release what holds you back. Prayer changes your heart and renews your mind.

4. Surround yourself with encouragement.
Find people who inspire you, who remind you of God’s promises, who cheer your progress.

5. Celebrate every step forward.
Progress may be slow, but it’s still progress. Celebrate small victories to build momentum.

Your Past Does Not Define Your Destiny

Maybe your past feels like a heavy chain. Maybe the mistakes, the pain, or the memories are loud and constant. But hear this: God can redeem your past and use it to build your future. Look at Joseph in the Bible – sold into slavery, falsely accused, imprisoned. He could have been stuck looking back at his broken past, but instead, he trusted God and stepped into his destiny. (Genesis 37-50) Another example is Peter, who denied Jesus three times but became the rock on which the Church was built. His past did not define him because he turned forward with faith. (John 21)

You can do the same.

Don’t Be Paralyzed by the Pillars of Salt Around You

This is one of those moments where I am writing and a new thought on the topic hits me. Lot kept going even when his wife had turned into the pillar of salt.

Think about that.

Imagine the heartbreak Lot must have felt. One moment his wife was right behind him, her voice in his ears, her presence beside him, and the next, silence. Stillness. She was gone. Lot could have stopped. He could have let grief paralyze him. He could have let guilt convince him to turn back and die with her. But he didn’t. He obeyed God’s voice. He kept moving forward. The message is simple: Don’t look back.

There is yet another message: Don’t let the “pillars of salt” around you keep you from moving forward either. In life, there will be people, sometimes even people you love, who refuse to let go of the past. They stay stuck in regret, bitterness, fear, shame. They live in “what was” instead of stepping into “what could be.” It’s heartbreaking to watch. We want to reach back, to pull them forward with us. But there comes a point when you must choose: Do I stay stuck with them, or do I follow God’s call into freedom?

This is not about abandoning people. We can pray, love, encourage, but we can’t live in the past with them. We can’t let their being stuck become our reality. If we do, we risk becoming frozen too. I believe Lot wept for his wife, but he didn’t stop obeying God. He didn’t let her choice derail his obedience. He kept moving forward. You may have friends, family, even leaders in your life who have become “pillars of salt” – crippled by the weight of the past, unwilling to let go. It hurts. It’s hard. But hear this: Their choice does not have to be yours.

Philippians 3:14 reminds us again: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Keep pressing on. Keep moving forward. Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do is to walk forward boldly, so that your life becomes an invitation, a light that calls others to follow. Lot’s wife looked back, and lost her life. Lot obeyed, and found salvation. Choose obedience. Choose life. Choose to move forward, even when others won’t. The voice of God is calling you onward.

Don’t Become a Pillar of Salt

Let Lot’s wife’s story be a wake-up call, not to shame or fear, but to hope and boldness. God is calling you forward. It won’t always be easy. You will have moments when you want to look back, to run to what’s comfortable. But don’t stay frozen. Move forward, step out in faith, trust God’s promises. Remember: Your future is waiting. The best is yet to come. If you’re feeling stuck or afraid to move forward, take a deep breath and pray with me:

“Lord, help me to let go of what’s behind. Help me to trust You with my future. Strengthen me to walk boldly forward, eyes fixed on You, heart open to Your plans. I choose to move forward in faith, not looking back. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

✨ If this message spoke to your heart, I’d love to hear from you—drop a comment below and share this with someone who might need it today. And for more daily encouragement, be sure to check out my YouTube channel — Divine Steps Daily — where we walk together in faith, one step at a time. 🙏✨

Choosing Joy in Every Step of Life

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

“Rejoice evermore.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:16 (KJV)

It’s only two words. A simple verse. One that’s easy to breeze past when you’re reading through 1 Thessalonians. Yet, those two words have the power to transform the way we walk through life.

Rejoice evermore.
This means rejoice, not just when things go right. Rejoice, not just when prayers are answered. Rejoice, not just on mountaintops. Rejoice Always. But what about the hard days? Rejoice. What about the seasons when the world feels heavy, and the tears come more easily than laughter? Rejoice. What about when fear whispers louder than hope, and disappointment weighs down your heart? Rejoice. The challenging times are exactly when this call matters the most.

But, what does it mean to rejoice?

To answer this question, I began by exploring a few online dictionaries, and the answers themselves made me smile. So i decided that I would attempt to make my readers smile also. The words related to the word rejoice were: to be glad, to be joyful, to feel and express joy, to celebrate, to delight in something. I also investigated what the word “Rejoice” meant in Greek and to my delight, there were similar results. The Greek word is χαίρω (chairō) which is pronounced as KHAI-roh, which is rooted in the same family of words as χάρις (charis, grace)) and χαρά (chara, joy) meaning that rejoicing flows out of receiving God’s grace. The Greek and English versions, both agree that rejoice means to be glad, and to actively express joy.

So what did I learn for all this? I learnt that to rejoice is to consciously choose joy. Rejoice is a gladness, sometimes incomprehensible to others around you, that flows from inner peace and confidence in God, not just from external events. This is why the word is often used in scripture to encourage believers to remain joyful even when circumstances are hard, because of trust in God’s goodness. Rejoicing, I learnt is not just an emotion. It’s an attitude, a decision, and an act of faith.

And by the way, just a note before i go on: the Greek for Rejoice evermore is : χαίρετε πάντοτε which literally means “rejoice at all times”.

OK so lets get back to our native language, English. So when Paul writes “Rejoice evermore”, he is using this phrase that literally means:“Be in a state of joy continuously – never stop rejoicing.

The Call to Rejoice even when It’s Hard

If we are being honest, joy isn’t always the easiest choice. Life is unpredictable. Sometimes it feels like everything is spinning out of control. And sometimes, rejoicing feels almost impossible, forced even. But here’s the truth: the joy we’re called to isn’t rooted in our circumstances. It isn’t tied to what happens around us. It’s anchored in the unchanging character of our God. He doesn’t ask us to deny our pain. He doesn’t expect us to pretend we aren’t struggling. Instead, He offers us a deeper invitation:

“Find joy in Me. Rest in Me. Rejoice because of who I am, not what life looks like.”

That kind of joy is supernatural. It isn’t manufactured by positive thinking or good vibes. It flows from knowing that, no matter what happens, God is present, faithful, and working for your good.

Why Joy Matters on the Journey

You and I are both walking this road of faith, sometimes confidently, sometimes stumbling. But every step we take is part of our purpose. And here’s what I’ve learned: Joy is the fuel that helps us keep moving forward. Without it, the path can feel endless, fear creeps in, weariness takes over. Purpose begins to fade under the weight of discouragement.

But when we choose joy, even in broken moments, we testify to something greater than ourselves. We proclaim that God’s goodness is bigger than our grief. We declare that His promises outlast the darkest night. So, hmm..How can i put this simply. I got it! Joy is a song that echoes through the valleys and the victories.

How Do We Rejoice Evermore?

You might be thinking: “That sounds beautiful, but how do I actually live it out? Especially when life is hard?” I want to share some simple, real ways to walk this out, because this is a journey I’m on too. Some days I wake up overflowing with praise; other days I have to fight for it. But every single day, this choice is shaping me.

1. Pause and Praise

When was the last time you paused and simply praised God, not for what He’s done, but for who He is?
In the busyness of life, we forget to stop and remember His goodness. Yet even in the darkest times, there is always something to praise Him for. Breathe in. Exhale. Look around. Look up. Find the smallest thread of beauty or hope and praise Him for it. Watch how praise begins to shift your perspective.

2. Remember His Faithfulness

Your story is filled with moments of God’s faithfulness—some big, some small.
But we often forget them when new trials come. Take time to remember. Write them down. Speak them aloud. Tell your children. Remind your own weary soul that the God who was faithful then is still faithful now. What He did before, He can do again.

3. Choose Words of Life

Words carry power. The enemy knows this, and he loves to fill our minds with fear-filled, hopeless words. But you can choose what you speak. You can choose to declare God’s truth even when your feelings don’t line up.

“The joy of the Lord is my strength.”
“God is working all things together for my good.”
“He will never leave me or forsake me.”
“This is the day the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Speak it. Even if your voice trembles.

4. Surround Yourself with Joy-Filled People

Surround yourself with believers who remind you of hope and purpose. Find those who will sit with you in the hard times, but who will also remind you of scriptures like The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10. Stay close to believers who will reassure you that rejoicing evermore is fueled by knowing God and trusting in His grace. Community matters.

5. Stay in His Presence

This is the heart of it all. Psalm 16:11 says: “In Your presence is fullness of joy.” He is not speaking about partial joy, nor temporary joy. It’s about fullness – completeness. The more time you spend with God, through prayer, worship, scripture, the more your heart will be anchored in unshakable joy. Not because life is perfect, but because He is.

Rejoicing Is a Testimony

Do you know that every time you choose to rejoice, you preach a sermon without words. You show your children that joy is possible in the storm. You show your coworkers that faith isn’t fake or fragile.

Your Step of Purpose Today

Friend, I don’t know what your life looks like today. Maybe you’re walking through a beautiful season of abundance. Maybe you’re barely holding on through a season of loss. Wherever you are, this call is for you:

Rejoice evermore.

Rejoice, not because life is easy. Rejoice, not because everything makes sense. Rejoice, because God is good. Rejoice, because He is with you. Rejoice, because His love will never fail. As you take your next step of purpose, take it with joy – not the shallow kind, but the deep, abiding joy that comes from knowing you are held by the One who holds all things together.

So let’s walk this road together. Let’s rejoice evermore. Let’s light the path for others with the joy we’ve found in Christ, and when the hard days come – and they will – may we remember: Joy is not the absence of struggle. It is the presence of Jesus.

If you felt inspired by today’s post, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments, and pass it along to your friends, family, and even your chat groups. Let’s spread joy together! And for more encouragement, visit and subscribe to our Divine Steps Daily YouTube channel—I’d love to see you there. Let’s keep walking in purpose, together. 🙏✨

You weren’t created to just get through life. You were made to thrive in His hands.

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

---

There comes a point in every believer’s journey where the weight gets too heavy.

You’re not quitting. You’re just tired.
Tired of faking smiles.
Tired of juggling everything.
Tired of trying to hold up a life that feels like it’s crumbling inside.

If that’s you, I need you to hear this:

God never asked you to survive this season alone.

He’s not waiting for you to be stronger.
He’s waiting for you to surrender.

Survival Says: “I’ve Got This.”

Surrender Says: “God, You’ve Got Me.”

Let’s break the myth: Surrender is not weakness.
It’s not defeat.
It’s not laziness.

Surrender is strength redefined.

It’s handing the steering wheel back to the only One who truly knows the road ahead.

When you’re in survival mode, your prayers sound like this:
“God, just get me through today.”
But when you surrender?
Your heart begins to whisper:
“God, take over. Lead. I’m done doing this in my strength.”

That’s when peace begins.

What Really Happens When You Let Go?

1. Clarity replaces chaos.
   When you stop striving, God starts speaking. Loudly. Clearly. Peacefully.
2. Joy returns.
   Not the bubbly kind, though that may come. The deep kind. I am referring to the steady kind, the I-know-God’s-got-this kind.
3. God starts moving. Don’t get me wrong but it’s not because He wasn’t moving before, but because now you are no longer in the way.

He doesn’t need your perfection. Just your decision to ask Him to lead.

“But What If I Let Go and Everything Falls Apart?”

Some things might fall apart, but only the things God never meant to last. What’s from Him will remain.
What’s not, will fade and it’ll hurt, yes, but it will also free you.

God isn’t trying to break you. He’s trying to build you on a stronger foundation.

You’re not just letting go of stress, or pressure, or people. You’re letting go of the illusion that you’re in control. And trust me – that’s one of the most important things you’ll ever do.

🧡 Mini Weekend Challenge: The Surrender Step

This weekend, do something radical (but simple).

Write down this prayer on a piece of paper. Say it aloud. Tape it to your mirror or phone screen:

“Lord, I surrender what I can’t control.
I surrender what I keep trying to fix.
I trust You with what I can’t carry.
I release my grip—because You never let go of me.”

Then take one step that symbolizes that surrender.

• Cancel the meeting that’s draining you.
• Rest instead of overworking.
• Open your Bible before your inbox.

One step. One shift. One surrender.

You’ll be amazed how Heaven moves when you stop forcing and start trusting.

🙌 CALL TO ACTION

If this post felt like God was tugging at your heart, don’t ignore it.
This is your moment to stop surviving and start trusting.

📘 My latest book Fearless: 15 Biblical Keys to Conquer Fear dives deep into how to break out of cycles of fear and start living surrendered and strong in Christ.

👉 Available now as an eBook on Amazon
📕 Paperback version coming soon — stay tuned!

✨ And if you’ve been blessed by this post, follow along for more Divine Steps Daily—real talk + faith truth to help you walk lighter and trust deeper, one day at a time.

Take a look at this short devotional before you leave.

A Real Talk Guide to Letting Go, Healing, and Letting God Fill the Gaps

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

We all carry something. Some carry pain so silently, you’d never guess it. Others wear their battles like armor – tired, guarded, and always bracing for the next hit. But deep down, whether loud or quiet, many of us are living with hearts full of negativity we were never meant to hold onto. You might not even realize how heavy it’s gotten until God whispers, “Let it go. I have more for you.”

Let’s Talk About the Clutter

We must admit that life has a way of piling things on. Disappointments, betrayals, fear, comparison, unspoken grief, self-criticism. Slowly but surely, they start to build up. You don’t notice at first. You smile through it, you keep going, until one day, you realize you’re not living but you are surviving. You are spiritually suffocating beneath the weight of stuff that was never yours to carry.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, bitter, or numb—it might not be because something’s missing. It might be because something needs to go.

God’s Not Afraid of Your Mess

Sometimes we hesitate to bring the negative things to God. We assume He only wants the clean, put-together parts of us. But hear this: He’s not shocked by your mess. He’s the only one who can handle it fully and still love you endlessly.

Psalm 51:6 says, “You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.”

God wants the real you. The raw, hurting, overthinking, emotionally exhausted you. And He’s not coming to shame you. He’s coming to clean house, gently and lovingly because cluttered hearts can’t appreciate His fullness.

1. What’s Taking Up Space in Your Soul?

Take a pause. Ask yourself:

• What do I constantly replay in my mind?
• What have I buried that still bleeds?
• Who do I still resent, even if I pretend I’ve moved on?
• What weight am I carrying that doesn’t belong to me?

This is more than emotional spring cleaning, it’s spiritual surrender. We can’t ask God to fill us if we’ve made no room.

2. You Can’t Heal What You Refuse to Hand Over

Sometimes we get so used to the pain that it becomes familiar, almost comforting. We identify with it. But that’s not your identity. It’s your injury. There’s a difference. And God came to heal you, not just help you cope.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).

Did you catch that? Cast all, not some. It’s not what feels “appropriate” to pray about. All of it. The bitterness, the ugly thoughts, the depression, the jealousy, the shame. All.

3. Let Go of What God Never Asked You to Carry

Sometimes, we carry weight that never belonged to us. Yes, you know exactly what I referring to.

• Trying to fix everyone.
• Living for people’s approval.
• Carrying bitterness that poisons our peace.
• Holding up an image that’s slowly crushing us.

But Jesus said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
That means it’s not your job to hold it all together. It’s His.

The truth? You don’t have to hold on to what God has asked you to release.

4. Let God Replace What You’ve Released

Here’s the beautiful part: when you make space, God fills it with healing, new vision, clarity and a fresh dose of peace. Now pay attention and read the following sentence carefully.

You can’t be full of both faith and fear, hope and hatred, grace and grudges. You can’t have both. When we empty out the regret, and the toxic narratives, God moves in with truth. Here are some examples:

• Lie: You’re too broken.
  Truth: “He heals the brokenhearted” (Psalm 147:3).
• Lie: It’s too late for you.
  Truth: “Behold, I am doing a new thing” (Isaiah 43:19).
• Lie: You’ll never change.
  Truth: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17).

5. This Is Not About Perfection—It’s About Positioning

You don’t have to be perfect to empty out the negative. You just have to be willing. God honors your honesty more than your performance. So come as you are, not as you think you should be. God can’t bless who you’re pretending to be. He wants the real you, because that’s the one He came to redeem.

Final Thought: Make Space for a Move of God

The truth is you weren’t made to live heavy. You were made to walk in freedom, to breathe deeply, to laugh without faking it, to wake up without dread, to love without walls.

But that starts by saying, “God, I’m done carrying this. Please take it.”

Let Him take your fears, your bitterness, your need for control, your disappointments—and fill the empty places with His Spirit. He’s not asking you to pretend you’re okay. He’s asking you to let Him make you okay.

Today, right now, you can open the door of your heart and let Him clean house.
Not to shame you. But to free you.

---

Ready to Let God Do the Cleaning?
Don’t let the weight of yesterday rob you of the peace God has for you today. Start small—pray, reflect, and release. And if this message stirred something in your heart, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with someone who might need a reminder that they don’t have to carry it all.

💡 Want to go even deeper in your journey to overcome fear and walk in freedom?
My brand-new book Fearless: 15 Biblical Keys to Conquer Fear is now available as an eBook on Amazon. Dive into real strategies, Scripture, and encouragement to help you live bolder, braver, and more anchored in faith.
📘 Grab your copy here!
📕 Prefer paperback? It’s coming very soon—stay tuned!

👉 And for daily inspiration and real talk, subscribe to the Divine Steps Daily YouTube channel. Let’s grow, heal, and walk in freedom—together.

Before you go, take a look at this 60 second devotional from the Divine Steps Daily YouTube channel.

A Heartfelt Guide to Living Fully by Putting God at the Center

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

Let’s be honest: life pulls us in a million directions. Work. Deadlines. Bills. Family. Friendships. Dreams. Disappointments. You wake up with a to-do list already waiting for you before your feet even hit the floor.

But in the middle of the rush, have you ever asked yourself, “Where is God in all of this?”

Not in theory. Not just on Sunday. But practically—where does He rank in your daily priorities?

Putting God first isn’t just a nice Christian slogan. It’s a radical shift that changes everything. And it’s one of the most powerful decisions you’ll ever make.

1. What Does It Really Mean to “Put God First”?

It doesn’t mean quitting your job to pray all day. It’s not about perfection or doing good things for people. Putting God first means that in every area of your life, He becomes your source, your guide, your anchor, and your priority.

• Before you post that status, you ask Him.
• When life gets hard, you run to Him first, not last.
• In the silence, you listen.
• With your time, your money, your words, He leads.

It’s not about guilt. It’s about alignment. When God is first, everything else finds its proper place.

2. God First… Even When Life Gets Busy

It’s easy to put God first when things are calm. But what about in the chaos? The packed schedules? The moments when your brain feels like it’s buffering?

Here’s a truth bomb: You’re not too busy for God. You’re too busy not to include Him.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

He didn’t say, “Seek Me after your job, your errands, and your social life.” He said, first, because when you place Him as your priority, everything else gets covered.

When God is first, He brings order where there’s confusion, peace where there’s panic, and clarity where there’s chaos.

3. Putting God First in Real Life (Yes, Your Actual Life)

You don’t need a spiritual retreat to start putting God first. You just need intentionality.

• In your morning: Start with a moment of prayer or Scripture before touching your phone.
• In your decisions: Pray about it, even the small stuff.
• In your finances: Invite God into your spending and saving.
• In your time: Make room to sit with God, not just rush past Him.

Putting God first doesn’t mean doing more religious things. It means living with God-consciousness. He becomes your filter and foundation.

4. God Isn’t Looking for a Spot—He Wants the Throne

It’s possible to say “God is first” while living like He’s optional. We give Him Sunday morning, but our Monday through Saturday looks like we’re running the show. But the truth? God can’t bless what you won’t surrender. He’s not interested in being an emergency contact or backup plan. He’s either Lord of all, or not Lord at all. When you stop trying to be your own god, you make space for the real God to move.

5. Why Putting God First Changes Everything

Here’s what happens when you start putting God first:

• Peace becomes possible even when nothing around you changes.
• Purpose becomes clear you’re no longer chasing validation or applause.
• Progress becomes real because now you’re building with the Master Planner.

Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”
Not some ways. Not just church stuff. All your ways.

That means He can direct your career moves, parenting decisions, healing journey, dating choices, business goals and creative ideas. Everything becomes easier to navigate when God is the GPS, not just the road flare after a crash.

6. When You Put God First, You’ll Be Tested

Let’s not sugarcoat it: putting God first sometimes means making tough choices like turning down opportunities that don’t align with your calling or trusting His “not yet” when your flesh wants “right now.”

But hear this, God will never take something from you unless He plans to replace it with something better. When He is your priority, you invite His protection, provision, and presence into every detail of your life.

7. This Isn’t Just About You. It’s About Legacy

Your decision to put God first doesn’t just impact you. It shifts the atmosphere in your home, your workplace, your circle of influence. You become a walking testimony of peace, strength, and grace under pressure.

And maybe, just maybe, someone else will look at your life and say, “I want that kind of faith.”

Final Thoughts: Start Today, Start Small

Putting God first isn’t a destination. It’s a daily decision.

You don’t have to get it perfect. Just get it going. Start with one small habit: a verse in the morning, a prayer in the car, a pause before a big choice.

And watch how things shift.

Because when you put God in His rightful place, first, He’ll take care of everything else.

Putting God first isn’t just an idea. It’s a choice we renew every single day. If this post stirred something in your heart, pause for a moment right now and ask:
“What does it look like for me to truly put God first today?”

🙏 Whether you’re just beginning that journey or you’ve been walking with Him for years, this is your reminder to realign, refocus, and let God take the lead.

💬 Share your thoughts in the comments. Have you noticed a shift when God is your first priority? Let’s build each other up through real stories and encouragement.

▶️ And if you’re hungry for more daily inspiration, motivation, and Scripture-based wisdom, subscribe to the Divine Steps Daily YouTube channel — your daily reminder that walking with God is the best step you can take.

📲 Share this post with a friend who needs this word today — and let’s keep growing in faith, together.

Before you leave, be encouraged by this 1 minute message from my Divine Steps Daily YouTube channel

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Hello and welcome to Steps of Purpose. Today I am sharing the first chapter in my soon to be published book, Embers of Strength. Its a devotional style book which was fueled by my onoing battle with several medical conditions. In the book, I take readers with me to the halls of the hospitals, to the back of the ambulance, the multitude of tests and medications. I marry the experiences with relatable everyday lessons for my readers. Today I share Chapter 1 of Embers of Strength with you – Wake Up

I don’t know how long I had been unconscious, but the sudden sound of a steady beep brought me back to life—or at least back to a reality I wasn’t quite ready to face. The high-pitched rhythm of the heart monitor was relentless, each beep a stark reminder that my body had betrayed me. Everything felt distant, like I was floating somewhere between dreams and reality. My limbs were heavy, my breathing slow, and my mind clouded with confusion.

The air smelled of antiseptic and something else—something sterile and lifeless. Footsteps moved with purpose in the hallway, the muffled voices of nurses and doctors fading in and out as I struggled to stay conscious. Then, through the haze, one voice broke through.

“Mervin… Mervin, can you hear me?”

I knew that voice. I fought to respond, to open my eyes, but my body felt like it wasn’t my own. My eyelids were heavy, my limbs weak, and my mind a mess of scattered fragments trying to come together.

It was my sister. There was something in her tone—concern, relief, maybe even fear. I wanted to answer, to tell her I was okay, but my throat felt like sandpaper, dry and raw. My body refused to cooperate. I turned my head slightly, eyes barely open, and saw her face hovering over me. The worry in her eyes cut through me.

I tried to piece together how I had gotten here, but my memory was a blur. I had no idea why I was on a hospital bed, uncertain of what had happened or what was coming next.

A wave of fear crept in. What if this was worse than I thought? What if my body was failing me in a way I couldn’t come back from? The questions swirled, threatening to pull me under, until a quiet but firm thought settled in my heart:

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

I had read those words before, but in that moment, they weren’t just scripture—they were survival. They were the only thing keeping me from spiraling into panic. I had no control over my own body, but I wasn’t abandoned. Even here, in the emergency ward, God was present.

A nurse approached, adjusting the IV in my arm, her face neutral but efficient. “You gave us quite a scare,” she said softly. “You collapsed in town. You’re lucky someone got to you quickly.” Lucky. People always use that word in moments like these. But deep down, I knew better. It wasn’t luck. It wasn’t a coincidence. It was grace.

My sister’s voice came again, this time louder, almost pleading. I managed to blink, the room swimming into view. The harsh white light above me made me squint, but I forced my vision to settle. There she was—her face filled with concern, her eyes scanning mine as if searching for reassurance that I was still here.

Then, like a flood, the reality of what had happened came rushing back. I had been walking through the capital city of Roseau—just another ordinary day, nothing out of the ordinary. And then… nothing. A void.

Somewhere between one step and the next, my body had given out. I had blacked out in the middle of town, collapsing onto the pavement. Strangers must have gathered, whispering, staring, maybe even trying to help. Someone had called for an ambulance. And now, here I was.

A chill ran through me, not from the cool air of the hospital but from the terrifying realization of how little control I had over my own body. What if I hadn’t woken up?

At this point, however, what-ifs didn’t matter. Only one thing mattered-God was here, in this hospital room, just as much as He had been in the streets of Roseau when I collapsed. He had upheld me when I could no longer stand. He had ensured I was found, taken care of, and given another chance to open my eyes.

The doctor arrived next, clipboard in hand, his face unreadable. “Mr. Matthew, how are you feeling?” The question felt impossible to answer. How was I feeling? Grateful? Terrified? Frustrated? Weak? All of the above? I nodded slightly, still too weary to form words.

“You experienced an episode of syncope, or a blackout, likely related to a cardiac event. We’ll need to run tests to determine the cause. For now, you need to rest.”

A cardiac event.

I had heard those words before. I had lived with the weight of them for years, always aware of the fragile balance I walked daily. But hearing it again, after collapsing in public, brought a new kind of reality. My body wasn’t just fragile. it was unpredictable.

The doctor continued speaking, answering my sister’s questions, and laying out the next steps. I heard it all, but it felt like I was listening from a distance.

My mind kept circling back to one thought: I could have died. It should have terrified me. And yet, strangely, it didn’t. Because I knew that I was not alone.

I was not alone when I lay unconscious in the street. I was not when I was rushed to the hospital, and I was not alone now. The machines could monitor my heartbeat. The doctors could run their tests. My body might be weak, but my God was not.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26). I closed my eyes, letting that truth sink deep. I could fear what was ahead, or I could trust the One who had already carried me this far.

That night, in that hospital room, I made a decision. I would not live in fear. If God had given me another day, another chance to wake up, then there had to be a purpose. I whispered a quiet prayer. “Lord, I don’t know what’s next. But I trust You.”

Dear Reader

Maybe you’re reading this from a hospital bed, your body weak and tired. Maybe you’re lying at home, feeling the weight of an illness that has drained every ounce of strength from you. Or maybe your battle is not physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, unseen by those around you, but just as real. I understand. I have been there.

I know what it is like to feel like your body is no longer your own, to wake up in a place you never expected to be, facing a future you never wanted to imagine. I know the fear, the uncertainty, and the questions that flood your mind late at night when no one else is watching. But know this: You are not alone!

The same God who held me up when I collapsed is the same God who is holding you now. The same God who whispered, “Fear not, for I am with you” into my heart is whispering it into yours.

You may feel weak, but He is your strength. You may not know what tomorrow holds, but He is already there. You may feel forgotten, but He sees you, right where you are. And He is not finished with you yet.

Every breath you take is proof that your story is still unfolding. Every moment you open your eyes is a reminder that God still has a purpose for you. So, no matter how dark this season feels, no matter how weary your body or your heart may be, remember that God is with you always.

Reflection

1. Reflect on a time in your life when you felt completely helpless. How did God meet you in that moment?
2. What areas of your life are you currently struggling to surrender to God’s control?
3. How does the truth of God’s presence help you in moments of uncertainty or fear?

Prayer

Father, thank You for the strength You’ve provided in my journey thus far. Help me to trust in Your plans, even when the road ahead seems uncertain. I pray that anyone reading this chapter finds the courage to take the first steps in their own journey, knowing You are walking beside them. May Your peace fill their hearts, and may they feel Your guidance in every moment. Amen.

Every breath is a gift. Every moment is a second chance.
Waking up in a hospital bed has a way of stripping life down to what truly matters—faith, love, and the will to keep going.

If you’re walking through your own dark season, take heart: the fact that you woke up today means your story isn’t over. God still has purpose for your life.

🕊️ Embers of Strength is a journey of healing, hope, and holding on when everything feels uncertain.
The book will be published soon on Amazon, and I’ll let you know the moment it’s available.

💭 Who needs to be reminded that waking up is a miracle?
Share this post with someone who needs encouragement today.

For those of you joining from the Steps of Purpose WhatsApp Group, I invite you to subscribe to Steps of Purpose Blog to have the posts delivered immediately to your email at 6am daily.

Before you close this page, I invite you to take a look at this 1 minute word of encouragement for today.

---

Subscribe to Divine Steps Daily YouTube Channel for daily encouragemet

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

Hi and welcome again to Steps of Purpose. Today, as promised, I will be sharing with you one of the chapters in one of my books, Fearless – 15 Biblical Keys to Overcome Fear.

This chapter explores how gratitude isn’t denial—it’s defiance. It’s not a weakness, it’s warfare. And if fear has been tightening its grip on your mind, your body, or your spirit…this one’s for you.

I have learnt that fear may shout, but gratitude sings louder.

So here’s Chapter 13 of Fearless – 15 Biblical Keys to Conquer Fear

Gratitude and fear may seem like unrelated emotions at first glance, but they are profoundly connected in the life of a believer. One weakens us; the other strengthens us. Fear draws our attention to what we lack, what might go wrong, or what threatens us. Gratitude, on the other hand, shifts our gaze to what we already have, to the faithfulness of God, and to the blessings that fear often blinds us from seeing.

This chapter explores how the practice of gratitude not only transforms our perspective but also empowers us to live fearlessly in a world full of uncertainty. We will see how Scripture consistently links thankfulness with peace and strength—and we’ll discover how choosing gratitude is not a denial of difficulty, but a declaration of trust.

Gratitude Reframes Our Reality

Fear thrives in the soil of uncertainty and scarcity. It focuses our attention on what might be lost, what is beyond our control, and what has the potential to harm us. Gratitude, however, lifts our eyes to what is certain and unchanging—namely, the goodness and presence of God.

Consider Psalm 118:6:

“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

This bold declaration is not rooted in the absence of danger but in the awareness of God’s abiding presence. It’s easier to say “I will not be afraid” when your heart is anchored in thankfulness for the One who walks with you.

Gratitude shifts your mental focus:

• From what if? to even if.
• From I lack to I’m blessed.
• From I’m alone to God is with me.

Biblical Examples of Gratitude Driving Out Fear

1. Paul and Silas in Prison

In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned—bound in chains in a dark dungeon. Yet, rather than complain or collapse into despair, they chose to worship and give thanks. They sang hymns to God, and their voices echoed through the prison.

Their gratitude didn’t come after the breakthrough—it was their posture before it. As they praised God, an earthquake shook the prison, their chains were loosed, and the jailer’s heart was opened to salvation.

Lesson: Gratitude in dark places unleashes spiritual power. It defies fear by declaring, “God is still worthy. God is still here. God is still good.”

2. Jesus and the Five Loaves

Before multiplying the loaves and fishes to feed thousands, Jesus did something powerful yet simple—He gave thanks (John 6:11). In the face of insufficient resources and a massive crowd, Jesus responded not with worry, but with gratitude.

He thanked God before the miracle. Fear could have focused on the lack. Gratitude focused on the Source.

Lesson: Gratitude invites divine provision. It positions us to receive rather than retreat.

3. The Ten Lepers

In Luke 17, Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one returned to give thanks. Jesus pointed this out, asking, “Where are the other nine?” Gratitude was rare—even among those who had just experienced a miracle.

But the one who returned received more than physical healing; he received spiritual restoration. Jesus told him, “Your faith has made you well.”

Lesson: Gratitude deepens our connection to God. It turns a momentary blessing into a lasting transformation.

The Science of Gratitude and Fear

Modern psychology supports what Scripture has long declared: gratitude rewires the brain. Studies show that practicing gratitude:

• Lowers stress hormones like cortisol.
• Increases dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters linked to joy and calm.
• Strengthens resilience in the face of adversity.

A grateful person is more emotionally stable, less reactive to stress, and better equipped to handle anxiety and fear. Gratitude isn’t just a spiritual principle—it’s a transformative practice that renews both mind and body.

How Gratitude Conquers Fear

Here’s why gratitude is such a powerful antidote to fear:

1. Gratitude Grounds You in the Present

Fear lives in the future—imagining worst-case scenarios that haven’t happened. Gratitude pulls you back into the present, reminding you of the blessings and provisions of today.

As Jesus said in Matthew 6:34:

“Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”

Gratitude helps you trust that God, who has brought you this far, will carry you through tomorrow as well.

2. Gratitude Declares God’s Faithfulness

When we remember what God has done in the past, it strengthens our faith for what He will do in the future. Thankfulness isn’t just about saying “thank you”—it’s about remembering.

Psalm 103:2 says: “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

Gratitude is a form of spiritual memory. It says, “God, I remember Your goodness, and that memory defeats the fear that tries to cloud my faith.”

3. Gratitude Humbles and Strengthens Us

Fear often stems from a desire for control. We fear what we can’t predict or manipulate. Gratitude humbles us by acknowledging that every good thing we have is a gift from God—not something we achieved alone.

James 1:17 reminds us: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

This humility doesn’t weaken us—it anchors us. We stop relying on our own strength and start depending on the One who never fails.

Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude Daily

Just like faith, gratitude must be cultivated. It’s not always automatic, especially in hard times. But you can train your heart and mind to give thanks, even when life is tough.

1. Start a Gratitude Journal

Write down three things each day you’re thankful for—big or small. Over time, you’ll begin to see patterns of God’s faithfulness you might have overlooked.

2. Make Gratitude Verbal

Tell people you’re thankful for them. Speak blessings out loud. During your prayers, don’t just make requests—spend time giving thanks. Philippians 4:6–7 connects gratitude directly to peace:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds.”

Notice that thanksgiving precedes peace.

3. Reframe Fearful Thoughts

When fear arises, counter it with gratitude. For example:

• Instead of “I don’t know how I’ll make it,” say, “I’m thankful that God has provided in the past.”
• Instead of “What if I fail?” say, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow.”
• Instead of “I feel alone,” say, “Thank You, Lord, that You will never leave me.”

This doesn’t mean ignoring reality—it means intentionally choosing to see it through the lens of faith.

4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Be thankful for every small victory. Celebrate the steps you’re taking to conquer fear—even if you’re not “there” yet. Gratitude for progress keeps your momentum alive.

Gratitude as Worship

Ultimately, gratitude is worship. It lifts our hearts above fear and fixes our eyes on God. It transforms fearful nights into songs of praise and turns anxious minds into instruments of peace.

Hebrews 12:28 says: “Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

Gratitude is an act of war against fear. It’s a declaration that no matter what happens, God is good, God is able, and God is with us.

Words of Encouragement

Fear may knock on your door—but gratitude is the key that keeps it from taking residence in your heart. When you cultivate thankfulness, you anchor your soul in truth. You start to see not just the size of the storm, but the sovereignty of your Savior.

You may not be able to control your circumstances, but you can choose your response. And when you choose gratitude, you choose victory.

So let your heart overflow with thanks. Let your words be filled with praise. And let your life become a living testimony that gratitude isn’t just a feeling—it’s a fearless way of life.

What are you grateful for today?
Pause for a moment and write it down. Gratitude is not just a feeling, it’s a weapon against fear. When you focus on what God has already done, your heart makes space for hope again.

🙏 If this chapter encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the comments—or share this post with someone who needs a little extra courage today.

📘 Want more? Get your copy of Fearless: 15 Biblical Keys to Conquer Fear and walk boldly into the peace God has already prepared for you.

If this chapter spoke to your heart, there’s more where that came from.
The book is now available as an ebook on Amazon for those ready to walk boldly in faith. For readers who prefer physical copies, the paperback edition will be available soon.

Let this be more than a read—let it be the beginning of a braver, bolder you.

Before you go, watch today’s bible verse.…

❤️ Subscribe for daily encouragement

WARNING: Today’s post is different.

It’s a heart to heart conversation with you.

Why I Started the Steps of Purpose Blog: When God Became My Only Constant

I didn’t start Steps of Purpose because I had extra time or because I thought the world needed another blog. I started it because I lived, and because I survived.

Many of you have been reading my posts, commenting, sharing your thoughts, and I’m beyond grateful. But today, I want to slow things down and take you back, because this blog isn’t just a place where words live. It’s where my heart bleeds, where faith holds me together, and where purpose rises out of pain.

The Purpose Behind the Posts

Steps of Purpose is not a project. It’s not a side hobby. It’s my testimony in motion. It’s faith, typed out. It’s a map for those walking dark roads, wondering if God still sees them.

I know what it is to cry out and feel nothing. I know what it is to ask for healing and receive silence. But I also know what it is to surrender and feel His presence flood the silence.

That’s why I write. That’s why I keep showing up.

The Body That Broke, the Spirit That Didn’t

Imagine walking down a street one moment and waking up in a hospital bed the next, with no memory of how you got there. Imagine slipping in and out of consciousness in the back of an ambulance, red lights painting the windows while medics scramble. Imagine blackouts – repeated, terrifying blackouts. Your body, a ticking clock with no guarantee of another tick.

This has been my reality.

Every post, every sentence, every single word you read here comes from a place of fire-tested faith, from someone who has stared death in the face more times than I care to count… and by the grace of God, still lives to tell the story.

My life, for years, has been a revolving door of hospital rooms, diagnostic tests, and countless specialists. I’ve sat in cold waiting rooms with more questions than answers. I’ve been hooked up to machines that beeped out rhythms more faithful than the stability of my own body.

Multiple ER visits. Unpredictable collapses. Hospital stays that blurred into one another. Diagnoses I had never even heard of until doctors delivered them like final sentences—
🩺 Ischemic heart disease
🩺 Stage 2 colon cancer
🩺 Sciatica
🩺 Megacolon

Words that tore holes into my life, but somehow never fully destroyed me. I lost track of the tests, the pills, the strange machines. There were nights when the side effects raged and the pain could only be described as excruciating. But I never lost God.

Sometimes, it’s just you and God.

There comes a moment in every storm where the noise dies down, and trust me, its not because the storm has passed, but because you’ve grown too weak to fight it. I stopped calling. I stopped explaining. I stopped trying to get people to understand what I barely understood myself.

I laid there… hurting, My body fighting battles it never asked for. Your mind replaying fears like a looped tiktok reel. My pillow soaked in tears that no one would ever see or dry. My lips silently whispered prayers

The room is dark, the pain is real.The meds have kicked in, but instead of relief, I felt like I was dissolving – dizzy, nauseous, exhausted beyond what i felt my soul could carry.

And it’s in that moment, that awful in-between space, where the silence got so loud…that I heard Him.

No, not in words. Not in a dramatic voice from heaven. But in the stillness—the divine ache, the sacred emptiness.

I realized it was just me and God.

It was not about the friends who didn’t check in or family who cared but did not fully understand.

It was Just me and the God who stayed.

He sat with me while I wept, He held me when I slipped in and out of consciousness in the ambulance.
He hovered when my body gave up but my spirit kept reaching. He was there in the silence, in the suffering, in the survival.

I didn’t need perfect words, I didn’t need long prayers. I just needed to breathe……

I began to embrace the reality that there are things no one can walk you through – Only God.
There are nights no one can pull you out of – only God.

There are storms that don’t pass with time, but somehow, God becomes your shelter in the storm.

You know what i discovered in the valley?
Raw, unscripted, honest relationship with a Great God.…. and you know what happened?

It changed everything!

The Quiet Moment That Changed Everything

After everything; the diagnoses, the pain, the sleepless nights, the emotional exhaustion, I found myself asking God,
“How can I thank You for keeping me alive?”

I didn’t want to take the road to my healing for granted, I didn’t want to coast on survival.
So I asked Him, honestly:

“What do You want from me?”

In those quiet moments, the answer came – not in thunder, but in a whisper:
“Use what I’ve given you.“

And so I did.

I turned my writing and media skills into this blog—Steps of Purpose.
I created the AI Hustlers Den blog to help others tap into Artificial Intelligence for their own success.
I launched two YouTube channels:
🎥 Divine Steps Daily – Faith-based encouragement with daily Bible verses and prayers.
🎥 Black & White Brilliance – motivational fire and perspective

And even beyond that, I discovered new gifts. Yup! I kid you not! God blessed me with other gifts like exhorting brothers and sisters of my church family at the Roseau Gospel Hall in the Commonwealth of Dominica. A blessing I never anticipated, but one I now hold close and strive to improve on.

A Word for You, Reader

If you are reading this, especially if you’re going through a difficult time right now—
Maybe an illness, maybe emotional exhaustion, maybe you are just trying to hold it all together while nobody knows you’re falling apart.

I want you to know this: You are not alone.

Your story is still being written, your survival is not in vain. Maybe, just maybe, like me, you will discover that this pain is actually a step of purpose.

Let’s Journey Together

In my next two posts, I will be saying thank you in a special way for reading, commenting, sharing and even subscribing to the steps of purpose blog. I will share a full chapter from one of my published books, “Fearless – 15 Biblical Keys to Conquer Fear” and one which will be published soon, “Embers of Strength – Finding Strength and Grace Through Adversity”. So I guess you have an idea where all this is going; how the message is growing across platforms and pages.

The ebook version of Fearless is already available on the Amazon bookstore and I will soon announce through this medium when the actual physical paperback copies will be available. There is much more to come in fiction and non fiction genres as well as devotionals with accompanying journals.

📌 And yes—feel free to check out my YouTube channels:

• Divine Steps Daily – for quiet strength, daily bible verses, prayer and short faith based motivational videos as well as 5 minute versions of posts from this blog on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Some of these videos will be soon embedded into the steps of purpose blog in the not too distant future.
• Black & White Brilliance – for fire and focus
  Each video is another step in the same journey.

Here’s How You Can Help

🙏🏾 Share this post with someone who needs a lift.
💬 Drop a comment. Let me know how the posts are impacting you.
📺 Take a few minutes and visit one of the channels. You might find something there that speaks directly to your current storm.

💬 I’d love to hear from you:
Has God ever met you in a moment of pain or stillness? Do you have a story of your own journey back to purpose? Let me know in the comments below. I read every single one.

And don’t forget — if you found this meaningful, share it. You never know whose heart it might reach today. ❤️

Thank you for being here.
Let’s keep walking… together.

The Promise We All Need Right Now

By Mervin Fitzgerald Matthew

“The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.” — Psalm 29:11

Twelve words. That’s it.

But in those few words lie two of the most desperately needed gifts in our world today and they aren’t just poetic concepts or feel-good phrases. They’re promises. Real ones, from a real God, for real people like you and me, walking through real life, with all its chaos, pressure, and unpredictability.

When Life Feels Like Too Much

Let’s be honest. There are days when it just feels like too much. Too many decisions, too many bills, too many fears about the future.

Some are trying to keep it together emotionally, mentally, financially, spiritually… but are running on fumes.

Can you relate?

Maybe you’re waking up already exhausted, wondering how you’ll make it through the day. Or maybe you’re lying awake at night, heart racing, thoughts spinning. We live in a world that’s constantly demanding more while giving us less and less peace in return.

That’s where Psalm 29:11becomes more than a verse. It becomes a lifeline.

Strength to Stand When You’re Drained

God doesn’t just watch us struggle. He doesn’t sit back and hope we “figure it out.”

No. He gives strength. That word “give” matters. It means He initiates, He supplies, He steps in.

He gives strength to stand, strength to keep going, even when we’re out of breath and out of answers. It’s strength for the parent holding a family together, the student overwhelmed by pressure, the worker exhausted from carrying silent burdens, and the believer battling doubt in the quiet places of the heart.

Peace That Doesn’t Make Sense… But Holds You Together

And just when you think He’s done—He adds something else. Peace.

Not the kind of peace the world offers, which disappears the moment things get tough. This is supernatural peace. The kind that doesn’t make sense. The kind that anchors you when life feels like a storm. It’s the deep breath in the middle of chaos.It’s the gentle whisper that says, “I’ve got you,” even when nothing else seems stable.It’s what keeps you from falling apart when everything else feels like it already has.

Peace doesn’t mean the storm stops.It means you can rest in God even while the waves rise.

The Daily Fuel You Didn’t Know You Needed

Here’s something beautiful: God doesn’t just give strength once and peace once. He gives them daily. Strength isn’t something you have to store up. It’s something you receive fresh, like daily bread. Peace isn’t a one-time blessing—it’s a gift God continually offers to those who turn to Him. The world might not change overnight.But you will, when you realize you’re not doing this alone.

So, Here’s Your Invitation Today

Maybe today isn’t a mountain-top moment. Maybe you feel drained, discouraged, or even a little defeated. That’s okay. You’re not expected to have it all together but you are invited to come to the One who does.

Right here, right now—God is offering you strength for today and peace for the storm and its not because you’ve earned it, and definitely not because you’ve got it all figured out.

Its because God loves you. Let that sink

A Prayer for the Journey

God, I’m tired. Sometimes life feels heavier than I can carry. But I thank You that You’re not asking me to do this alone.Give me strength today – strength to keep moving forward. Bless me with peace, a peace that steadies me, even when life doesn’t. I trust You to be my anchor, my helper, and my hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

If you felt inspired by today’s post, share it with someone who needs a little strength and a whole lot of peace today.

As we come to the end of another week, I want to thank you for joining me on this journey as I seek to inject a bit of inspiration and encouragement into your veins daily through my posts. The Journey continues.