People use fear to manipulate.

Do this. Don’t do that.
Buy this. Don’t buy that.
Believe this. Don’t believe that.
Include them. Don’t include them.

The complexity and complication of our different lives is big — no two of our lives the same.

We easily embrace the idea of everyone being unique —
Uniquely You.
There’s Only One You.
You are Enough.

Yet, just under the surface we’re telling a different story.
Think this way.
Talk this way.
Believe this way.
Look this way.

Imagine how painfully flat life would be if artists looked through the same eyes and thought the same thoughts.

We celebrate their music, paintings, books, sculptures, drawings, and movies. Their differences bring fullness and beauty to life.

God brings so much beauty in our differences. It’s a tender reminder that we’re not ACTUALLY in control.

And it can get sticky here.

When we’re busy boxing people in, afraid for others to see life differently, we’re living in fear. And when we’re actively, regularly living in fear, we’re showing we don’t believe God. And God doesn’t want us to live here.

He’s already given us the incredible truth in Isaiah 9:7 that “of the INCREASE (my emphasis) of His government and peace there will be no end.” God is telling us that His power and peace will continue to INCREASE FOREVER.

Let’s kick the box to the curb and just love one another.

Have no fear friend, God’s got it all worked out.

If you want to make peace and move forward in strength by simply changing your spiritual posture, join my email community.

*btw I’ve made different colors of this image to use as a lock screen reminder — find it on my Instagram.

xo, Nicole