From Feeling Overlooked to Owning My Power
Have you ever felt the sting of being left out? The frustration of feeling overlooked, even among those who are supposed to be your closest allies? — I know that feeling ALL TOO WELL.
As a young girl, I was bullied and ostracized, and that experience shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until much later. Even in professional settings, I’ve felt that same sting — being excluded, misunderstood, or judged for my uniqueness.
But here’s what I’ve learned: what felt like rejection was actually redirection. God reminded me that I was set apart for a reason, not left out without purpose.
I’m shiny. Always have been and always will be. Even on my worst days, I have more light and positivity than most people. Why? Because God created me that way. He made each of us with a unique light and purpose that doesn’t depend on others’ acceptance or approval.
Think about Noah, who kept building the ark even when people laughed at him because they had never heard of rain (Genesis 6:9-22). He didn’t need their approval to continue the work God had set before him. He didn’t let their doubt cloud his faith or diminish his purpose. He simply trusted and kept building.
Or consider Abraham, who didn’t try to convince his entire family to join him when God called him to a new land (Genesis 12:1-4). He understood that his calling was personal, that his journey was his alone. He moved forward in faith, leading with purpose and trusting that God’s plan was greater than any fear or uncertainty.
And then there’s the widow with a jar of oil, burdened with debt. She didn’t try to involve all her friends in her miracle. She followed the prophet Elisha’s instructions, gathered empty jars, and poured out what little oil she had. God provided her with enough to pay off her debts and live abundantly (2 Kings 4:1-7).
The Key Lesson? Focus on Your Path and Trust God’s Plan.
God has a unique path for each of us, a purpose that is ours alone to fulfill. When we focus on our own journey and allow God’s discernment to guide us, we find that He brings the right people and opportunities into our lives. These are people who won’t gossip about your shine, complain about your prices, or try to make you compromise your God-given vision.
Finding Emotional Independence and Inner Strength
It’s easy to feel alone when you’re walking a path that others don’t understand or when you’re pursuing a vision that seems impossible to those around you. But remember, God didn’t call us to follow the crowd; He called us to follow Him.
Emotional independence comes from understanding that your worth and your calling aren’t dependent on others’ opinions or acceptance. It’s about finding your inner strength in His promises and leading with purpose, even when the path feels lonely or difficult.
Leading with Purpose When It Feels Lonely
When you’re excluded or misunderstood, remember that God is with you. He sees your heart, your struggles, and your efforts. He has set you apart for a reason, and His plans for you are good. Lean into that truth. Let it be your source of confidence and strength.
Your journey is uniquely yours, and sometimes, that means walking it alone—or feeling like you are. But you are never truly alone. God walks with you, guiding your steps, and leading you toward the purpose He has uniquely designed for you.
Turning Rejection into Redirection
What if we saw rejection not as a personal failure but as a divine redirection? A gentle nudge from God, steering us back to the path He intended for us all along. It’s a powerful shift in perspective that can transform how we handle being left out or misunderstood.
When I stopped trying to fit in where I wasn’t meant to be, I found freedom. I realized that God’s plan for my life didn’t require anyone else’s approval or validation. It required my faith, my obedience, and my trust in Him.
Trusting God’s Timing and Purpose
God’s timing is perfect, and His plan is flawless. When you trust Him and follow His lead, He will bring the right people and opportunities into your life. The right collaborators will align with your values, support your vision, and help you grow without asking you to compromise who you are.
So, if you’re feeling left out or rejected, remember this: You are set apart, not cast aside. Focus on your path, trust His discernment, and let your light shine. After all, you were made to stand out.
Conclusion: Embrace Your God-Given Shine
Your journey may not look like anyone else’s, and that’s a beautiful thing. Embrace your uniqueness, your shine, and your God-given purpose. Trust in the Lord’s plan for your life, and remember that you don’t have to go it alone—He’s walking beside you every step of the way.
Let this be your encouragement today: You are set apart for a reason. Trust that reason, trust your path, and let God’s love guide you through every challenge.