It's Time to Ride

Key Truth: Pursuing God doesn't end with an encounter. It continues every day as we stand on His Word, trust the character of Christ, and move forward in His strength.

Scripture Anchor:

Ephesians 6:10

Joshua 1:9

Psalm 119:105

Consider This: The Christian life was never meant to be lived on yesterday's experience. God gives us moments of revelation so we can live lives of transformation.

When Paul reaches the final chapter of Ephesians, he begins with one powerful word: Finally. After reminding believers who they are in Christ, after teaching them how to walk in love, unity, wisdom, obedience, and after revealing the incredible blessings found in Christ, Paul leaves them with one final charge:

"Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might."

He doesn't tell them to be strong in their abilities. He doesn't tell them to trust their emotions. He doesn't tell them to rely on their own determination. He points them to the only Source strong enough to sustain them - THE LORD! That is where our strength comes from.

As I closed our Pursue Women's Conference, I reminded the women that it's time to ride.

Not because the journey will be easy or because every question has been answered. Or that every battle has already been won, but because we know the One who rides with us.

I shared that before we ride, we had to lace up our boots. Basically, stand firmly on the Word of God because His truth is our foundation when life feels uncertain. His promises remain steady when circumstances change.

Then put on our backpack and not the backpack filled with fear, regret, comparison, bitterness, or yesterday's disappointments. But, carry what God has given us: His Word, His peace, His promises and His strength.

Then ride with God and a Girlfriend because a good Girlfriend will cover your six (she has your back)! Whether you're stepping into a new season, facing an unexpected challenge, pursuing a dream, leading your family, serving in ministry, or simply trusting God for tomorrow, remember this:

You are not riding alone.

The One who called you is walking with you, strengthening you, and empowering you every step of the way.

Reflection Questions:

• Am I standing on God's Word or reacting to my circumstances?

• What "backpack" have I been carrying that God never asked me to carry?

• What has God placed in my hands that I need to carry forward in faith?

• Where is God calling me to trust His character instead of my own understanding?

• What step of faith is it time for me to take?

Application: Take a few moments this week to make two lists. On the first list, write down everything you've been carrying that God never intended for you to bear. On the second list, write down the truths God has given you through His Word. Pray over both lists. Leave the first one at the feet of Jesus. Carry the second with confidence. Then take one step of obedience that demonstrates you're trusting God's strength instead of your own.

Prayer:  Father, thank You for reminding me that my strength comes from You. Forgive me for trying to carry burdens You never asked me to bear. Today I choose to lay down fear, anxiety, disappointment, comparison, and doubt.

I lace up my boots, determined to stand firmly on Your Word. I put on the backpack You've prepared for me, filled with Your promises, Your peace, Your purpose, and Your power.

Strengthen me to walk in obedience, trust Your character, and follow wherever You lead. When I grow weary, remind me that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. When I face uncertainty, remind me that You are faithful. Help me pursue You daily and live out everything You have taught me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Closing Declaration: I am strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. I stand firmly on God's Word. I trust the unchanging character of Christ. I have laced up my boots. I carry His promises, His peace, His purpose, and His power. I will move forward in faith because God goes before me, walks beside me, and lives within me. It's time to ride.