Dear Lord, as we embark on this journey of healing and transformation, we ask for your guidance and support. May you provide us with the strength to face our challenges, the wisdom to make pivotal decisions, and the grace to experience rebirth and renewal. Help us to live our lives with purpose and fulfillment, trusting in your love and faithfulness. Amen.
Focus: My Journey and Elijah’s Story 🔄
Hi, I’m Miriam Smith Stevens. Today, I want to share a story that reflects both my personal journey and the story of Elijah from the Bible. Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 19:1-4 resonates deeply with me because it mirrors my own experience of going through a traumatic event and finding my way back to hope and purpose. P.S. To hear and read more about “My Journey” please click here.
Elijah’s Story (1 Kings 19:1-4) 📜
1 Kings 19:1-4 (MSG):
Ahab reported to Jezebel everything that Elijah had done, including the massacre of the prophets.
Jezebel immediately sent a messenger to Elijah with her threat: “The gods will get you for this and I’ll get even with you! By this time tomorrow you’ll be as dead as any one of those prophets.”
When Elijah saw how things were, he ran for dear life to Beersheba, far in the south of Judah. He left his young servant there
and then went on into the desert another day’s journey. He came to a lone broom bush and collapsed in its shade, wanting in the worst way to be done with it all—to just die: “Enough of this, God! Take my life—I’m ready to join my ancestors in the grave!”
Elijah’s Feelings and Mine 💔
What is Elijah Feeling? Why is He Feeling This Way? 😟
Elijah is feeling terrified, exhausted, and defeated. After witnessing God’s powerful display against the false prophets and praying for rain to end a three-year drought, he thought things were finally going his way. But now, Queen Jezebel is after his life, and Elijah is overwhelmed with fear and despair. He feels vulnerable and questions his own worth, saying, “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.”
I can relate to Elijah’s feelings. I experienced a brutal assault that left me feeling broken and hopeless. Like Elijah, I had moments of victory in my life, but the trauma I faced brought me to a point of deep despair and fear. I felt like everything I had achieved was meaningless in the face of my pain.
What Does Elijah Do in Response to His Feelings? 🏃♂️
Elijah runs. He flees to the wilderness, isolating himself from everyone. He is so overwhelmed that he asks God to take his life. Elijah’s response is a mix of flight and collapse, a common reaction to intense trauma.
In my own life, I also responded with a combination of flight and collapse. After the assault, I withdrew from many aspects of life, feeling overwhelmed and ashamed. I questioned my worth and struggled to see any purpose in my future.
Devotion: Putting Myself in Elijah’s Place 🌄
Imagine Being Elijah 🧠
Imagine being a prophet of God in a country where people have turned away from Him. You witness God revealing Himself powerfully, and the false prophets are defeated. You pray for rain after a long drought, and it comes right on time. You feel vindicated and confident in God’s protection. Then, suddenly, your life is threatened by the most powerful woman in the country, and all your faith and confidence crumble.
Elijah’s story is not just about his physical flight but about his spiritual and emotional collapse. His victories made him vulnerable because they heightened his expectations of safety and divine protection. When threatened, his fear and despair intensified.
My Elijah Moment 🌌
My own “Elijah moment” came after the assault. Just like Elijah, I had experienced victories in my life—achievements that made me feel secure and confident. But the traumatic event shattered that confidence. I felt exposed and vulnerable, just like Elijah did in the wilderness.
Connecting with Elijah’s Vulnerability 🌿
Why Was Elijah Vulnerable After His Victories? 🏅
Elijah’s victories made him vulnerable because they raised his expectations. He believed that after such clear signs of God’s power, he would be safe from harm. The threat from Jezebel was a stark contrast to the divine protection he had just witnessed, making his fall into despair even harder.
My Experiences of Trauma and Transition ⚡
My traumatic experience was a life-threatening assault that left me grappling with depression, doubt, and shame. Like Elijah, I felt abandoned and questioned my worth. My response was to withdraw and isolate myself, much like Elijah fleeing to the wilderness.
The Agony of Victory and Despair 🌧️
Feeling Powerful and Then Powerless 😔
After such great victories, like Elijah, I felt on top of the world. I had achieved so much, and I believed that nothing could shake my faith or confidence. But then, the assault happened. My peace was shattered by someone who threatened my life. The trauma left me feeling utterly powerless.
The Depths of Despair 🌊
I became a frightened hermit, locking myself in my bedroom with a kitchen knife under my pillow and my dressers pulled to block my doors. I was immobile with fear, reliving the terror of the attack every morning, noon, and night. The memory of my attacker choking the breath out of my body played in a harrowing movie loop in my mind. Even with the miracle of surviving, the aftermath was extreme and terrifying.
My Journey to Rebirth 🌅
Crisis 🌪️
In my initial phase of crisis, I acknowledged the pain and challenges I was facing. Just as Elijah confronted his despair in the wilderness, I had to confront the deep wounds from my assault.
Pivot 🌉
During the pivot phase, I made crucial decisions to change direction. I sought support, set new goals, and took small steps to rebuild my life. It was like turning a corner, just as Elijah eventually found his way to a new path with God’s guidance.
Rebirth 🌻
My rebirth came as I started to see positive changes. I completed my degrees and created The Thankful Revolution to help others. It was a period of transformation, much like Elijah’s renewed purpose after his encounter with God.
Next Level Living 🌈
Now, I am living my best life, helping others navigate their journeys. Just as Elijah found new strength and purpose, I have moved from mere survival to a life filled with purpose and joy.
N.O.W. Process: New-Beginnings is Our Witness 🌟
What is New-Beginnings is Our Witness? 🌱
New-Beginnings is Our Witness (N.O.W.) is a process that guides us from a place of pain to a place of hope and joy. It stands for Crisis, Pivot, Rebirth, and Next Level Living. This process is about navigating crises, making pivotal decisions, undergoing renewal, and achieving new beginnings. It emphasizes moving from a state of hopelessness to a renewed and purposeful life through God’s guidance.
The Breakthrough 🌞
A breakthrough had to happen. Only God could get through the depths of my darkness to bring me out of the poisonous mind loop into a new state of focus. I am a survivor, but more importantly, I am empowered to live and live a life more abundantly. I have a message to share and a victory to rejoice.
Personal Testimony and Disclaimer 🗣️
Although I am not a trained medical or mental health provider, my journey from a traumatic life event to a place of hope and purpose has given me valuable insights. I experienced a life-threatening attack that caused disruption, distress, and depression. This pain process eventually birthed a purpose, and the peace that was shattered began to refocus on God’s truth for me. I started to write a different story narrative and learned how to breathe again after a traumatic life event. I am here to share my story and support others in their healing journeys. My experience has shown me that it is possible to move from a state of despair to one of triumph and abundant life.
Questions and Answers ❓
1. Why do you think Elijah may have been vulnerable after his victories? 🏅
Answer: Elijah’s victories heightened his expectations of divine protection. The sudden threat from Jezebel contrasted sharply with his recent experiences of God’s power, making him feel more vulnerable and fearful.
Scripture Reference: “The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1 NIV)
2. What experiences of trauma or transition have you had that led to you feeling like Elijah in the wilderness? ⚡
Answer: My traumatic experience was a life-threatening assault. It led me to feel abandoned, ashamed, and doubtful of my worth. I responded by isolating myself and withdrawing from many aspects of life.
Scripture Reference: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4 NIV)
3. How did you react initially to the crisis in your life? 🌪️
Answer: Initially, I reacted by acknowledging the pain and challenges. I was immobilized by fear and relived the trauma daily. It was a period of crisis and deep despair.
Scripture Reference: “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 NIV)
4. What pivotal decisions did you make to change your life direction? 🌉
Answer: I sought support, set new goals, and took small steps to rebuild my life. I decided to create The Thankful Revolution to help others navigate their own crises and transitions.
Scripture Reference: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV)
5. How did you experience rebirth and transformation? 🌻
Answer: I started to see positive changes as I completed my degrees and began helping others. It was a period of transformation, much like Elijah’s renewed purpose after his encounter with God.
Scripture Reference: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
6. What does Next Level Living mean for you now? 🌈
Answer: Next Level Living means living my best life, filled with purpose and joy. It’s about moving from mere survival to a life of abundant living and helping others do the same.
Scripture Reference: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10 NIV)
7. How can others apply the N.O.W. process to their lives? 🌿
Answer: Others can apply the N.O.W. process by acknowledging their crises, making pivotal decisions to change direction, undergoing a period of renewal, and striving for new beginnings. This process emphasizes the importance of moving from hopelessness to a renewed and purposeful life through God’s guidance.
Scripture Reference: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:2 NIV)
8. What message do you want to leave with those who are struggling with trauma and despair? 🌟
Answer: I want to assure those struggling with trauma and despair that God never leaves nor forsakes us. His love is unconditional, and His grace and mercy are always available. Regardless of our circumstances, God will guide us through our traumatic experiences into a triumphant new beginning. We can truly breathe again and live better, stronger, and without shame or fear.
Scripture Reference: “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV)
Reflection 🌸
Key Concepts and Definitions 📘
1. Crisis: A critical or decisive point where important changes occur. In the N.O.W. process, it represents the acknowledgment of pain and challenges.
2. Pivot: A significant change in direction. It involves making pivotal decisions to move forward in life.
3. Rebirth: A period of renewal and transformation. It signifies positive changes and growth.
4. Next Level Living: Living a life filled with purpose and joy. It represents moving from survival to abundant living.
5. New-Beginnings is Our Witness (N.O.W.): A process that guides us from a place of pain to a place of hope and joy. It stands for Crisis, Pivot, Rebirth, and Next Level Living.
Offer for Salvation ✝️
If you feel lost, hopeless, or overwhelmed, know that Jesus Christ offers salvation and freedom. The Bible says in John 8:36 (MSG), “So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.” Jesus loves you and wants to give you a new beginning. If you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please pray this prayer:
Salvation Prayer:
“Dear Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of your grace. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I ask you to come into my heart and be my Lord and Savior. Help me to live a life that honors you. Thank you for your love, mercy, and forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Congratulations on making this life-changing decision! Here are some next steps to help you grow in your new faith:
Read the Bible: Start with the Gospel of John to learn more about Jesus.
Pray Regularly: Talk to God daily, sharing your heart and seeking His guidance.
Join a Church: Find a local church community where you can grow and connect with other believers.
Share Your Faith: Tell others about your decision and how Jesus has changed your life.
Next Steps After Accepting Jesus: 📖
Read the Bible: Begin by reading the Scriptures to understand more about God’s promises and guidance. Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to learn about Jesus’ life and teachings.
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Pray Regularly: Develop a habit of talking to God through prayer. Share your thoughts, needs, and gratitude with Him. Prayer is a way to build a strong relationship with God.
Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Join a Community: Connect with other believers through a local church or Christian fellowship group. Being part of a community provides support, encouragement, and opportunities to grow in your faith.
Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Share Your Faith: Let others know about the decision you’ve made. Sharing your journey can inspire and encourage others on their path to faith.
Matthew 5:14: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
As you take these steps, remember that your journey with Jesus is a lifelong adventure. Embrace each moment with faith and trust in His guidance. If you need support or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help and walk alongside you in this new chapter of your life.
🌟 Please DO Share this: Message, Bookmark the site, Comment on the POST, Like the information, and subscribe to continue to get updates. Thank you for stopping by as I am a work in progress walking out / typing out my purpose along my life’s journey. Selah and Shalom ~ Miriam aka Essence of Myrrh Proverbs 3:5-8 🌟
Let’s start living our best life N.O.W. = New-Beginnings is OUR Witness!TRUST God to help you navigate through your life’s journey into a vitalized and healthy destination!
Continue to stay tuned for more on the meaning of LIFE as we explore Biblical Truths one word at a time, one scripture at a time, one moment in time, …let’s eat that daily bread! Selah, Shalom, Amen Indeed Miriam a.k.a. Essence of Myrrh Proverbs 3:5-8 (TIME for a next-level New-Beginning)! We would be honored if you do Subscribe, Bookmark, Save, Share, Comment, Like, and Enjoy how N.O.W. = New-Beginnings is our Witness can be yours today through one daily Myrrhism Word/Message at a time.
Psalm 37:23, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighted in his way.”
P.S. Remember, to help us navigate through this life and enjoy a new life that one being eternal with God our Father; we have to make a decision N.O.W. = New Beginnings is our Witness. Above provides a prayer that you can ask the Lord to become your Redeemer, Healer, Savior, your everything to help you on your personal life’s journey – even though it may be bitter sometimes with God He always sweetens your steps. Love you always! Miriam aka Essence of Myrrh Proverbs 3:5-8.
John 10:10 The Message Version
6-10 Jesus told this simple story, but they had no idea what he was talking about. So he tried again. “I’ll be explicit, then. I am the Gate for the sheep. All those others are up to no good—sheep rustlers, every one of them. But the sheep didn’t listen to them. I am the Gate. Anyone who goes through me will be cared for—will freely go in and out, and find pasture. A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.
Please DO Share this: Message, Bookmark the site, Comment on the POST, Like the information, and Subscribe to continue to get updates. Thank you for stopping by as I am a work in progress walking out / typing out my purpose along my life’s journey. Selah and Shalom ~ Miriam aka Essence of Myrrh Proverbs 3:5-8
Contact Me 📞
I would love to connect with you and support you on your journey to healing and renewal. You can reach me through the following platforms: So, how do we stay connected you ask?
Contact me today 📞 to start your path to transformation. I offer empathetic and compassionate advocacy to help you reclaim your voice and move beyond shame and despair. Together, we can turn your trials into triumphs and your pain into purpose.
In this moment of uncertainty and need, I come before You with a heart full of trust and dependence. Your Word assures me that You are my Provider, my Protector, and my Guide. I declare Your promises over my life:
Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Psalm 91: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’ For He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.”
Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”
Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Nehemiah 8:10: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”
Philippians 3:13-14: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Lord, I surrender my worries, fears, and uncertainties to You. You are my way-maker, and I trust that You will create a way where there seems to be no way. Help me to lean on Your promises, to walk in faith, and to experience Your provision in every area of my life.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Together, let’s move from trauma to triumph and live out the fullness of God’s promises. Reach out today to start your path to healing and transformation.
Miriam S. Stevens aka "The Brand Paramedic", is an online social multimedia network strategist. She works with entrepreneurs, special interest groups, and non-profits to develop a social media campaign, marketing strategy, and customer engagement blueprint. She offers this three-prong approach to successfully connect business brands with their clientele. As the creator of MsStevensPR.Com, Miriam encourages productive, one-to-one focus meetings to pinpoint a company’s vision, research their targeted audience, and develop the right implementation plan.
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