You may feel stuck… but what if this is actually growth?
When I was a child, I struggled in school. My two older brothers made straight A’s, but I had a hard time. Reading and comprehension didn’t come easily. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school that I was diagnosed with dyslexia. By then, I had already figured out how to get by—and with God’s grace, I graduated.
Because academics didn’t come naturally, I leaned into relationships and social skills. I remember a vivid moment in Bible college. My brother Tom, his girlfriend Jane (now wife), and I all studied hard for a test. We knew the material. But when the grades came back, they both received A’s—I got a D. I was devastated. I cried. I knew the answers—I just couldn’t process the written test the same way.
Even now, I still wrestle with fear when reading Scripture aloud during a sermon. That fear has tried to hold me back more than once.
But I take comfort in Moses’ story. When God called him, Moses responded, “I am not eloquent… I am slow of speech and of tongue” (Exodus 4:10, NKJV). God didn’t rebuke him—He reassured him. If God could use Moses with his limitations, He can use us too.
Over the years, I discovered that I’m more comfortable writing than speaking. I even wrote a book, Stewarding Your Best Life, and now I write articles to strengthen others in their walk with God. His strength truly is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Everyone Grows at a Different Pace
Not everyone learns the same way. Some things come easily to others, but that doesn’t mean you’re behind. We’re all growing—but we’re growing differently. That’s why Scripture tells us:
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up…” —1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Judge not, that you be not judged.” —Matthew 7:1
Dyslexia taught me this personally. I don’t catch subtle hints. I take things literally. When people say, “You knew what I meant,” I often didn’t. I only knew what they said. It’s not rudeness—it’s wiring. God made me this way. And He equips each of us uniquely for the call on our life (Hebrews 13:21).
The Stages of Spiritual Growth
The rhythm of the Kingdom is this: bottom to top… and then back to the bottom again. But each time, at a higher level.
My mom wrote a book, God’s Tests Are Positive, that outlines the stages of growth in life—and it mirrors our spiritual journey so well.
Baby Stage – You cry, and someone comes. No one expects maturity. Everything is done for you.
Toddler Stage – Now you’re being trained. Throwing tantrums and making messes are no longer excused. Not rejection—it’s preparation.
Kindergarten – You start learning how to sit still, listen, and pay attention.
Elementary School – Tests are introduced. You take them, pass them, and advance. You’re taught the basics—like math. Then math gets harder. Same subject, different depth.
By 5th grade, you’re the top of the class. You feel confident, capable. But then comes…
Middle School – And you’re back at the bottom. The rhythm resets. You learn to navigate more complexity—new social dynamics, new academic demands. Same subjects, but deeper content.
Then you rise again—until you’re the leader of the school—an 8th grader. Top dog.
High School – But guess what? Freshman again. Bottom rung. New environment. New pressure. But also, new opportunity. Each level requires more of you, even if you’re covering familiar ground. Algebra becomes calculus. Reading becomes critical thinking. What used to stretch you now feels basic.
And when you graduate?
College or Career – You start again. Freshman. Entry-level. Bottom of a new system. But this isn’t failure—it’s growth. It’s the rhythm of development. Bottom to top, over and over again. But every time, you’re going higher.
This is why the same lessons will revisit you in new ways. Because you’re not just repeating—you’re being refined. Trained. Elevated.
“Study to show yourself approved unto God…” —2 Timothy 2:15 “When I was a child, I spoke as a child… but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” —1 Corinthians 13:11
Be Encouraged—You’re Still Growing
No matter where you are—just starting, in transition, or leading—you’re still being transformed into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). And that process often looks like being humbled… again.
If you’re struggling, you’re not disqualified. God provides help. He sends people. He uses tools. I rely on my team and technology to help me communicate. And there’s no shame in that. Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17).
Don’t let fear, shame, or comparison keep you from stepping into what God has called you to do. You may feel like you’re at the bottom—but you’re not stuck. You’re growing. You’re advancing to the next level.
“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory…” —2 Corinthians 3:18
This is the rhythm of Kingdom growth. From bottom to top… and higher every time.
Life is filled with unexpected moments—some beautiful, others incredibly painful. As believers, we hold on to the truth that no matter what comes, God is still sovereign, and His plans are ultimately for our good. Romans 8:28 reminds us:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
What followed in my life was a season I never saw coming—but one that God used to deepen my dependence on Him.
In 2023, I experienced two life-altering events that tested my faith, patience, and physical strength.
One morning, after dropping my dad off at the airport—a routine drive I had done countless times—I turned into my neighborhood, just as I always had. But this time, a car came speeding toward me without headlights. The impact was devastating. My car spun. The other car rolled. I was left with six broken bones—my pelvis, back, and rib were fractured—and my life came to a sudden halt.
In an instant, my carefully laid plans vanished. The months ahead turned into a journey of hospitals, healing, and pain management. I had no choice but to surrender control.
Then in November, while putting up Christmas lights, another freak accident struck. I fell from a step stool and landed hard on my right ankle. The break was severe and required surgery, leaving me with a metal plate and five screws. Bedridden again. More plans canceled. More time away from everything I had hoped to enjoy with family and ministry.
Can I explain why this all happened? No. Did I get some grand revelation in the middle of it all? Honestly, no.
But I clung to the promises of God. I leaned into His Word. I reminded myself daily that God doesn’t waste pain. Even when we don’t understand, He is working behind the scenes—bringing good out of hardship and drawing us closer to Him.
Sometimes the revelation is not in the reason, but in the result: a deeper trust, a clearer voice, a stronger spirit.
And yes—I’ve said it more than once:
“This too shall pass. It may pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass.”
That little bit of humor carried me through more than a few painful days.
I once heard this wisdom: “Plan your life like you’re going to live to be 100. Live your life like Jesus is coming tomorrow.” That stayed with me.
We all face trials—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Just as the body can be broken and slowly rebuilt, so can the soul. Healing is a process. It takes time. There are scars. There are adjustments. Even now, my back still aches if I stand too long. I walk with a slight limp. But I’m walking. I’m serving. I’m moving forward by the grace of God.
To anyone going through their own storm: hold on. Be patient. Trust in the slow, steady work of healing that God is doing in you. He is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and He promises never to leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
No matter how difficult things look at the moment, don’t lose hope. Keep your peace. Stay patient with long-suffering. One day, you will look back on this and either laugh or use it to help someone else walk through a similar trial. It will become part of your testimony—a teaching and maturing experience that God uses to conform you into the likeness and image of Christ Jesus (Romans 8:29).
Psalm 30:5 says: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Worrying about something will not change it. Scripture tells us not to worry: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). Sometimes we have to take one day at a time, one hour at a time, or even one minute at a time. If you dwell too much on the future, it can become overwhelming and discouraging.
In those moments, I sing the old hymn: “One day at a time, sweet Jesus, that’s all I’m asking of You. Just give me the strength to do every day what I have to do.”
And I pray—continually. There are times when all you can do is whisper prayers under your breath or in your heart. Keep your mind fixed on Christ, and resist the urge to spiral into fear or doubt.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”(1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)
This too shall pass. And when it does, you’ll emerge stronger, wiser, and more rooted in the faithfulness of your God.
In today’s world, identity is a major topic of discussion. People often ask, “What do you identify as?” or “Where do you find your identity?” The concept of identity shapes how we see ourselves and how we interact with the world around us.
What is Identity?
The dictionary defines identity as “the distinguishing character or personality of an individual.” But as Christians, our identity is not rooted in worldly definitions—it is found in Christ. We are continually transitioning into His likeness and image (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Where Do We Find Our Worth?
It’s natural to find comfort and security in the roles we hold. Personally, I have found great joy and purpose in being a mother and grandmother. My family, my parents, brothers, children, and grandchildren—has been a source of stability and strength for me.
However, Jesus gives us a sobering reminder in Matthew 10:37: “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.”
This does not mean we should love our families any less, but rather, that our ultimate worth, security, and trust must be found in Christ alone.
Identity Built on the Fruit of the Spirit
Our character and identity as believers are shaped by the fruit of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” — Galatians 5:22-23
Some people find their identity in wealth, success, or recognition. Others build their worth on titles and positions—whether in ministry or the corporate world. But being a pastor, evangelist, teacher, prophet, or apostle is not an identity; it is a calling. These roles are responsibilities given by God for the purpose of perfecting and equipping the saints for the work of the ministry. (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Likewise, positions such as CEO, manager, supervisor, or leader in any field can be blessings. However, if our security is found in promotions, financial success, or public acknowledgment, we will always be left wanting. Instead, we are called to do everything unto the Lord:
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” — Colossians 3:23
A Testimony of True Identity
My father, Bishop Bill Hamon, gave his life to Jesus at a small brush arbor meeting with just a few teenagers in an open field in Oklahoma. The woman who ministered that night may never have known the impact of her obedience. If her identity had been based on large crowds, financial support, or public recognition, she might have felt like a failure.
But because her identity was in Christ, her worth was found in His grace and mercy. And in the end, her reward in heaven will be just as great as my father’s—because she was faithful to her calling. This is the essence of finding our fulfillment in God rather than in earthly success.
You never know if that one person you are talking to and helping will change thousands of lives. God has called us to be obedient in the seemingly small things as much as the seemingly large more noticeable things. Obedience will help to form our character and our identity.
The Danger of Misplaced Identity
When we place our identity in people, fame, fortune, or material possessions—even in our families and mentors—we will inevitably face disappointment. These things are temporary, but our identity in Christ is eternal.
My True Identity
At the end of the day, I identify as a Christian—someone who is being transformed into the likeness and image of Christ. From glory to glory, I seek to reflect His character through the fruit of the Spirit in my life. May we all find our true identity, worth, security, and purpose in Him alone.
These past few days have been disturbing in many ways. Yesterday, I was driving from the gym and a cop was behind me. I immediately got nervous. I wasn’t speeding or doing anything wrong, but with everything going on, it didn’t give me a safe feeling. The institution that is designed to protect and serve is tainted. It has been tainted by individuals. I want to speak into this from a different perspective than most people have been talking about it.
Racism can be undone in any individual
Racism can be undone in any individual Racism can be undone in any individual, and we can play a part in it right now. No person is born racist. People are taught racism from their family, environment, culture, and personal experiences. Their initial exposure to prejudice was not their choice. However, even if they have been exposed to that belief system, they have a choice. They can choose in each instance whether to reinforce the belief or break it down. So many have fallen into this system unintentionally, and now they continue walking it out. It will take continual, intentional desire and effort to break out of it.
Racism is a human value issue, not just a black and white issue
Racism is a human value issue, not just a black and white issue Discussing it primarily as a black and white issue creates a couple of problems: it discredits the voices of other skin tones and it draws a clear line between two enemies, distracting from the real problem. Now we’re focusing primarily on two polar opposites at war, missing that racism, or hatred of other skin tones, exists in all shades. For example, in the Caribbean culture, there is discrimination between lighter and darker-skinned Caribbeans. By continuing the “black and white” label of racism we keep lock people into categories rather than identifying with them as individuals. The real problem is the devaluing a human being, and robbing them of the image of God they were designed to represent. And the first step to solving the problem is discussing human beings as human beings rather than categorizing them by their color.
People behave like people, not like an ethnicity
People behave like people, not like an ethnicity The riots and the destruction that you’re seeing is not a race trying to get their way. It’s the anger and pain of injustice that human beings are internally walking in. Your outer world is a reflection of your inner world. Psychology teaches that anger is a secondary emotion to hurt, fear, and rejection. These humans are revealing the deep pain, rejection, fear, and hopelessness they feel and live with every day. They need empathy, to know that we understand that you’re angry and we care what happens to you.
There is an answer to these issues. The answer is not found in changing the systems or in a reconciliation church service. It’s solved at the dinner tables and in homes. I’m not talking about just talking about the issues at the table with your own family. I’m talking about inviting one another into our homes and connecting. It’s hard to label and categorize someone you’ve spent time with and gotten to know personally. Connection is the answer. This needs to happen on all sides.
There is hope and its found in each one of us doing our part. We have to let go of pre-existing mindsets and connect with someone different than us. CONNECTION BREEDS COMPASSION!
“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” 1 John 4:20
The solution to racism is not found in changing systems or reconciliation services.
In conclusion, as a society, we must recognize that racism is a learned behavior and can be undone through intentional effort. It is important to understand that racism is not limited to just the black and white binary, but it is a human value issue that affects all skin tones. The riots and destruction we are currently witnessing are a manifestation of anger and pain from longstanding injustices. The solution to racism is not found in changing systems or attending reconciliation services, but in connecting with people of different backgrounds on a personal level. By fostering connection, we can breed compassion and love, and ultimately work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.
What God is Revealing for 2023? – Join Apostle Jane Hamon for the Word of the Lord!
Apostle Jane Hamon recently shared a powerful message during a conference earlier this year.
In John 16, Jesus talks about the Holy Spirit and how he needs to go away to send him to us. But what’s interesting is the word that Jesus uses to describe the Holy Spirit – paraclete. This Greek word means “one that walks alongside,” but it also means someone who becomes our advocate and helper in times of trouble. Essentially, the Holy Spirit stands up for us and takes our side.
But here’s where it gets even more exciting. In the Aramaic language, the word for paraclete is “perata,” which is actually two words combined. The first part, “perak,” means “the one who removes or destroys,” and the second part, “letter,” means “the curse.” So when you put them together, “perata” means “the one who removes or destroys the curse.”
Wow, talk about powerful! The Holy Spirit isn’t just our helper, but he’s also the one who destroys curses and sets us free from the things that hold us back. And Apostle Jane Hamon believes that we’re going to see an incredible release of this yoke-breaking, curse-destroying anointing through God’s people this year.
It’s amazing to think about how the Holy Spirit works. He’s not just a comforting presence, but he also empowers us to overcome and conquer the things that try to bring us down. So if you haven’t already, be sure to check out Apostle Jane Hamon’s message and get ready for an incredible year ahead.
