Feeling Overwhelmed?

Wow! We’ve reached the 10th edition of this newsletter, and I couldn’t be more excited!

Ten weeks of deep reflections, shared experiences, and a growing community. Thank you for being part of this journey. Your feedback and encouragement have made this space truly special.

Now, let’s dive in!

When It Gets Overwhelming

What do you do when life feels overwhelming? Where do you go? How do you keep it all together? These are questions we all face, especially in positions of leadership, where every move is scrutinized. The pressure can be intense - whether it’s a stressful workload, a difficult relationship, or the constant changes in the world around us.

I’ve often wondered how truly successful people navigate these pressures. How do they stay focused, calm, and purposeful when life throws unexpected challenges their way? The answer lies in two powerful forces: faith and focus.

The world isn’t just loud - it’s persuasive. It tells you success is about striving, proving yourself, and running at a breakneck pace. But God tells a different story. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us to “fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Why? Because everything we need flows from that focus.

There is something powerful about taking a stand on who you are and who you want to be. The world, along with our emotions, has a way of questioning the depth of our commitment - whether we can truly live up to the identity we claim.

It’s only natural to face challenges, both from within and from others who recognize our potential. But our duty is to ensure we do not disappoint the power within us to overcome every obstacle. Jesus assured us in John 16:33, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

This means we can navigate difficulties - not by avoiding them but by anchoring ourselves in faith.

Faith is not just a feeling - it’s an anchor. Think of faith as the deep roots of a mighty tree. When storms rage, the tree does not panic; it stands firm because its roots go deep. In the same way, our faith in God grounds us when life’s winds threaten to topple us.

Romans 10:17 says, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Faith is not passive. It grows when we intentionally feed it - through prayer, worship, and immersing ourselves in God’s Word.

For me, the church is my fueling station. I serve in one of thechurches near my home, where my pastor preaches the truth of God’s word. Many times, I have walked into church feeling overwhelmed and walked out reminded of Romans 8:37: “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Faith has a way of resetting our perspective.

Imagine an Olympic sprinter. Before the race, they stand at the starting line, eyes locked on the finish. They don’t look at the crowd, their competitors, or even their own feet. Their focus is singular. They run to win.

Life demands that same kind of focus. Proverbs 4:25-27 instructs: “Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you… Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” Focus determines direction. Where your eyes go, your life follows.

So what should we fix our focus on?

• Standing up for God, even when it’s inconvenient.
• Not becoming less than we are just to please others.
• The work God has given us, even when emotions try to dictate otherwise.
• Commanding our thoughts to align with God’s will (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Did you know you have the power to silence every thought, idea, or emotion that exalts itself above the name of Christ - including your own self-doubt? Many times, we assume that external factors are the enemy, when in reality, the battle often starts within us.

No one is perfect. But here’s a truth that’s rarely discussed: Perfection is possible - through intentionality. Jesus didn’t tell us to strive for something unattainable. In Matthew 5:48, He said, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” This means we can attain a higher level of discipline, integrity, and spiritual growth by being deliberate about it.

A soldier never forgets why he is fighting. He remains mission-minded. That is who we are - God’s soldiers, strategically placed in the world to make a difference. Galatians 2:20 reminds us: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” This means we no longer operate in our own strength - we live by His power.

As we step into February, let’s ask ourselves:

• Are we walking by faith or being led by emotions?
• Are we giving distractions too much power?
• Are we sharpening our focus on God’s plan for our lives?

One of the greatest joys of this newsletter has been hearing from you. Your messages and insights remind me that we are on this journey together - undefeated, refining our character, and doing exploits for God in our personal and professional lives.

This 10th edition is a personal milestone, but it’s only the beginning. I want to hear from you - what has resonated with you the most? What themes do you want us to explore in the coming weeks?

Here’s to a February filled with clarity, discipline, and unshakable faith.

Love,

Esther