13 Years Ago Today: We Took a One-Way Flight of Faith!

13 years ago today, my family and I hopped on a plane with a one-way ticket from Florida to Los Angeles. I didn’t have all the answers—I just had a yes in my spirit.

We left hurricane warnings for earthquake tremors and wildfires, but more than that, we stepped into the unknown with nothing but faith.

Sometimes we think life will move in a straight, predictable line. But God, in His wisdom, often leads us into seasons of uncertainty—not to punish us, but to see if we’ll trust Him in the process.

I’m reminded of the children of Israel, who were intentionally led through the wilderness, completely dependent on God. He knew the “shorter” route would be more challenging, and that they might turn back. Yet in that season, instead of trusting Him, they grumbled and complained—which caused them to forfeit the promise. Ouch! How many times have we done the same?

Looking back over these thirteen years, I’ve walked through seasons that stretched me, humbled me, and reshaped me. There were moments I didn’t understand, moments I wanted to give up, and moments I had to learn to lean into God in a new way.  Yet one thing has never changed: my God has been with me every single step of the way.

These years have been life-changing. There have been some great days and some not-so-great ones. I’ve walked through lessons I never imagined, but I’ve also seen God’s faithfulness in ways I could never deny! I can truly say that everything—yes, everything—works together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

7 Lessons These 13 Years Have Taught Me

1. Surrender

Surrender means giving God full control over every part of your life—your dreams, your possessions, your plans, and even your relationships. It recognizes that nothing we have is truly ours; we are simply stewards. When we loosen our grip and place it all in His hands, we position ourselves for His best. Surrender also means trusting His “no” as much as His “yes” and knowing His way is always better.

“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” — Psalm 24:1

2. Seasons Change 

Life is full of shifting seasons. People change. You change. Circumstances change—and that’s okay. God moves us through seasons of growth, pruning, waiting, and harvest, and each has a purpose. When we embrace the season we’re in, instead of fighting it, we can fully experience what God is trying to teach us. Some people are only meant to be in your life for a season, some for a reason, and some for a lifetime—and knowing this makes it easier to pivot when God says it’s time.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

3. Hold Everything with Open Hands 

We often cling tightly to people, positions, or possessions, but the truth is—none of it belongs to us. Holding things with open hands allows God to move freely in our lives. It means being willing to release what He removes and to receive what He gives. This posture keeps us from becoming possessive or fearful and helps us remain aligned with His will.

“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” — Job 1:21

4. Take Time for Yourself 

As women, we often pour ourselves into everyone else—our family, ministry, work—until we’re running on empty. But you cannot pour from an empty cup.. Jesus Himself modeled the importance of stepping away to rest, pray, and be refreshed. Taking time for yourself is not selfish; it’s stewardship of the body, mind, and spirit God entrusted to you.

“But Jesus often withdrew to desolate places and prayed.” — Luke 5:16

5. Family 

Protect your family above all else. God has entrusted them to you as your first ministry, so never put anything—work, ministry, or friendships—above them. Follow God’s order for the home, where Christ is the foundation and love is the language. As women, we are called to be builders, creating a home where God’s presence dwells and our loved ones feel safe, valued, and loved. Sometimes that means setting boundaries and guarding your time so your home remains strong. Be the wise woman who builds what God has placed on her heart.

"The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.” — Proverbs 14:1

6. Give Thanks in All Things 

Gratitude is a powerful weapon against discouragement. When we give thanks in every season—good or bad—we’re declaring that we trust God’s plan. The Israelites missed their promise because they complained in the wilderness. But thanksgiving shifts our perspective, strengthens our faith, and prepares us to step into the blessings ahead.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

7. Carpe Diem — Seize the Day 

Life is a gift, and tomorrow is never promised. Seizing the day means being fully present—loving well, laughing often, forgiving quickly, and saying “yes” to the moments God places in front of you. It’s living intentionally so you don’t look back with regret, but with gratitude for the way you stewarded your days.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12

If you find yourself reflecting on where you are in life, remember this: there’s a lesson in every season. God makes everything beautiful in its time (Ecclesiastes 3:11). If He is leading you to make a change or take a step of faith, know that He will provide all you need for the journey. Your part is simple, be still, listen, and obey quickly!

So here’s to 13 years of learning, growing, and refusing to stay the same. As I step into this 13th year in Los Angeles, I’m here for it all. The promise is true—your beginning will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be. (Job 8:7).

I look ahead to the One who is the Author and Finisher of my faith. Here’s to the next chapter.

Action Step

Take a few moments this week to reflect on your own journey. Write down the lessons God has taught you in different seasons—both the mountaintop moments and the wilderness ones. Then ask Him:

• What season am I in right now?

• What lesson are You teaching me here?

• How can I respond with trust, gratitude, and obedience?

  
  

Prayer

Father, we thank You for being with us in every season—through change, uncertainty, and even in the wilderness. Forgive us for the times we have complained instead of trusting You. Teach us to surrender fully, to hold everything with open hands, and to give thanks in all things. Help us to see our lives through Your eyes and to trust that You are working all things for our good. We declare that our latter will be greater, and we choose to follow You with swift obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

💛 Thank You for Being Here

You are not just existing—you are intentionally becoming. 

And I’m so glad you’re here.

Keep BEING. Keep BECOMING. Keep BELIEVING. 

Let’s intentionally walk in the truth of who God created us to be, together.

With love and purpose, 

💛 Always BEING Intentional