The Voice Of Encouragement

of The Voice for Purpose: I have changed the name of this page to The Voice of Encouragement. I have recently re-branded, though, combining my and -based businesses, and will be primarily posting on my personal page and my new business page, Lisa Stroth VO:The Voice Of Encouragement. I invite you to join me there! 💜

"It's the simple things in life that are the most extraordinary."
~Paulo Coelho

When the storms of life are raging (and we all face them, don't we?) it's comforting to know that Jesus is my rock, and that the storm is never unexpected nor so violent that His light doesn't lead the way. I just have to keep my focus on HIM and not the storm.

I heard a message a while ago based on Psalm 34 that has stayed with me. Look at these two lines:

"...O magnify the Lord with me, And let us lift up His name together. I sought the Lord [on the authority of His word], and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears." ~Ps 34:3-4 AMP

So what does it mean to "magnify the Lord?"

Magnify: to glorify, or to focus on something so that it appears bigger. God is bigger than we can imagine, but when our focus is on the storm around us, He can become smaller in our thoughts. If we magnify, glorify, and focus on HIM, the storms don't go away, but we can feel less threatened by them because we know He will DELIVER us.

This Psalm makes it clear that David was afraid. He had good reason to be! When we face our own challenges, it's natural to feel some fear. In those times, we can look to scripture and see story after story of God's faithfulness, and we can remember the times He has delivered us.

If you're facing a storm today, focus on Jesus. He will light the way, and will provide the anchor to keep you safe in the midst of the storm. Our heavenly Father WILL deliver you from your fears and guide you through the storm.

In this photo, the window screen makes the view look fuzzy, but that doesn't change the beauty of what's on the other side of the window. 🦋🐦💐

Sometimes life is like that. 😳Disappointment and discouragement when things are difficult can challenge our ability to see the good, positive things that are happening or that are possible.

🤔But the truth is, if we look hard enough - if we choose to seek the positive in each situation, we can sift through the negative noise and be encouraged as we find reasons to keep moving forward.

This doesn't mean that what's hard doesn't exist or doesn't matter. It does mean that we can choose not to stay focused on it and allow it to consume us.

🧐What do you do to stay focused on moving forward in difficult times?

My faith - choosing to trust God- is what keeps me going. ✝️ Philippians 4:4-8 reminds us to rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS, to not be anxious about things, and to bring our requests to Him with thanksgiving. When we follow these words of instruction, Jesus offers a peace that is beyond our understanding. We are also reminded to focus on what is true, honorable/noble, worthy, pure, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. I find that when I keep my mind set on these things, I'm less likely to feel overwhelmed and swallowed up by difficult circumstances. 💜

We are looking for one or two more fantastic people to join us! This is a permanent position (not a summer job). Must be over 18, must have a bubbly personality and be a go getter! Swing by Sorso soon for an application!

Sorso is excited to share that we will be a (part time) vendor at the farmers market this summer! The season is just a few weeks away! Check our events calendar and social media for what dates we will be attending!

I love how Robin at Sorso Coffee supports local vendors/creators! If you haven't stopped in, go check them out! Do a little shopping while you enjoy top-notch coffee and tasty treats!

John 8:12 AMP
[12] Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, “I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

https://bible.com/bible/1588/jhn.8.12.AMP