(The end of this gets a little intense, disclaimer. I do talk about something uncomfortable, I’m sure, is not uncommon in the blogging community. There’s one incident that pushed me to talk about this, but by no means, am I talking about just one person.)ย
THANK YOU!!!!
WOW!!!! I’ve been anticipating this as the numbers grew, but I never knew how excited I would be to reach 300 followers!!! Looking back on everything on this blogging journey, I don’t think I believed I could ever get this far, so if you are out there, and you have under 50 followers, I was in your shoes. I didn’t reach a 100 followers till after I celebrated my first year having the blog, and God used that time to refine me as a writer and a blogger. It’s okay! Don’t lose heart, but keep focused ๐
Blog Stats-
This is the 212th post of the blog.ย
Approaching Milestone– I am less than 1,000 views away from viewing 10,000 views all time.!
This post will cover new things I’ve introduced in the blog since 200 Followers, a message for bloggers, and at the end, I talk about something that’s been on my heart that has troubled me in the past.
New Posts/Page I’ve Started
Testimony Series– This series will cover powerful testimonies in my life, how God made His hand known. The firstย is here. (Not weekly)ย ย
Alphabet Devotional– This series you can see on Mondays. A letter of the alphabet is picked and two words of that letter relating to Christ. I also share words from the previous week of what others have come up with.
I love the feedback and participation. โค
Blogger Spotlight– So far, I have one post.
My version of Blogger Spotlight is for readers to comment something they would like to see me write about that hasn’t been covered in relation to my blog.
My blog is about devotion, depth, and connection to Christ and God’s Word through the Holy Spirit. Topics not related to this won’t be covered.
The reason I decided on this method was to get to know my community of readers and followers. What you all want to see, learn about, and where your heart is ๐ โค
First inspired post-ย ย Temptation | Believer 101
Topics I’ve Covered Page– If you’re curious about a topic and not sure if I covered it, that’s the whole purpose of this page ๐
You can check the page out here.
My Message To You The Writer/Blogger
Take yourself seriously, everyone! ๐
In my first post ever, I talked about the short period of time I looked into an online source that could connect you with writing jobs.
You may not be surprised to know…this really is not who I am. I found that out quickly.ย ย But one thing I did take out of the whole experience I want to share with you.
They taught to take your writing seriously. For a writer, embrace your writer title. Introduce yourself as such.
Believe in the work you are set out to do. Trust God has a plan. Embrace the job He’s given you. Don’t give up.
Growth Of Audience Has Impacted Me As A Writer
Let’s admit it. If we wanted to only write for ourselves, we could do so very easily. We could make a private document, blog, or jot things down in a notebook. But the fact we decided to make things public says a bit more, to me at least.
I feel it’s reaching out. Maybe to help someone. Maybe to feel connected. When giving tips many bloggers discuss to write what you feel, and up to 95% of this message, I completely agree with.
The only caution I give is toย consider your audience, you have one follower? ๐ Congrats, you have an audience. I’m not saying to only think of what your audience wants to see. What I’m saying is dig within yourself to find honesty, truth, connection, and care.
Especially as a believer of Christ, we need these things, but we are encouraged to remain aware of our accountability. Are we glorifying God with what we write? Are we speaking in a voice Jesus Christ would use (cursing)?? Are we writing things that will stumble up other believers? Are we getting argumentative? We are warned in 2 Timothy…
2:14, “Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.”
2:16, “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.”
2:23, “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.”
Followers help us stay consistent. God speaks through them, which speaks to us, or convicts us of what to work on.
Realizing my audience is growing has humbled me. It’s encouraged me to keep pressing forward so I see God’s fruit become fruitful. So many of you have truly spoken to my heart, encouraged me, enlightened me, became friends with me, and inspire me. I’m grateful for the opportunity to talk to you ๐
But, it needs to be stated, followers can also sometimes stumble us up.
Speaking of that…
Announcement: Comments Could Get Deleted
On my Twitter and my Facebook page in early October, I spoke of this, but I want to cover it here, as most of you get your information here.
Comments that stumble me up as a believer will get deleted. I will not tolerate comments that are lecturing, belittling, confusing, or comments not relating at all to the post written.
That being said, I don’t mind long comments, but it must relate to the post. I love discussion and conversation. I sometimes leave long comments on posts as well. ๐
At first, I wasn’t sure what to do when I saw these kinds of comments. When I felt what I talked about in my post wasn’t good enough for the commenter to discuss, they instead lectured/preached about other things. But God did give me an answer.
God opened my eyes to the fact, this is MY blog, which means, as I said earlier, I am ACCOUNTABLE for my blog. I am accountable for what my readers see.
It’s okay to feel concerned we might hurt someone’s feelings. But it’s okay to stand up for yourself, your writing, your audience, and above all your relationship with Christ.
I will not have comments discussing things I don’t feel are the right place or appropriate material.
Should you not see your comments does not mean you aren’t welcome or can’t comment, however. (Sometimes, spam happens too)
Message I’d Like To Say
I don’t have a physical voice here, but I am saying this gently and kindly for any of my Christian readers.
Please do not try to lecture me without knowing my story and my relationship with Christ. Get to know me, where God has taken me, and my calling first ๐
I see this so often in the body of believers, some of you have also written about your experiences with this. Which is why I feel called to talk about.
People don’t get to know me and my relationship with Christ, they just assume.
And it hurts.
It’s like no matter what I do, no matter how far I’ve come with Christ, people don’t always see that. They see age and assume ignorance. They appear to feel it’s their job to lecture/preach first. I’ve seen this, especially in real life, so many times. Truth is, this is NOT being Christlike.
Here’s what I want to say.
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER AND WISDOM OF GOD TO USE YOUTH!ย
DO NOT BELITTLE THE WORK HE HAS DONE IN MY LIFE AND HIS GLORY HE RECEIVED!ย
People can hurt me, but I won’t accept them belittling Him! Maybe they don’t think they are belittling Him when speaking to me this way, but they are. ๐ฆ
When someone doesn’t get to know me and my journey with Christ, that person is belittling every single amazing thing God has done for me.
(Note: This is not everyone of course!! ๐ This has been something on my heart and I felt I needed to talk about it here. I’ve not seen anyone talk about this, and I felt the tug it needs to be talked about, and not hidden.)
Which leads me to ask.
Christ knew the ones He spoke to, do we? Do we truly know the person we are talking to or lecturing? Are we speaking to hear our own voice?
Do we have a right to say everything we want to because we have the knowledge or experience?
I don’t think so. It’s important we all consider this as Christians and Christian bloggers.
When I get sermons and lecture comments having NOTHING to do with my posts, I feel belittled and sometimes rebuked for things I am not even against. It really stumbles me as a believer because the feeling it creates is separation, and we are to work together as the body of Christ, not separate. Because we truly can lift each other up in the right way of Christ.
Especially the past few days leading up to this post, I’ve seen so much amazing feedback, discussion, and encouragement. I want to iterate again, this is something that was placed on my heart to discuss. For those of you who have experienced this as well, you are not alone.
Which is why I’m accountable to what God puts on my heart.
And you, my dear reader, are accountable to what God puts on your heart too ๐
Above All Listen To What Christ Puts On Your Heart
Write about the hard topics even if people misunderstand. Use this as an opportunity, NOT A SETBACK! Talk about the misunderstanding, be constructive. Point to Him all throughout the way. Be willing to admit when a mistake is made, embrace humility. Amen, God has shown me this.
Don’t let people stand in front of Him and between your relationship with Him. Go to Him in prayer. Guard yourself with His truth, guidance, His instruction, and then set out. Pray for your enemies or those who are against you.
The journey has just begun โคย Thank you, everyone, who has gotten me this far!
See a topic not covered on Inside Cup? Maybe it could be the next inspired post. Let me know in the comments below.ย
Congratulation, girl on getting 300 followers! Happy for you! โค
Continue to inspire your readers! ๐
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Thank you!!!! ๐
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Congratulations on reaching 300 followers girl, you deserve it! โค โค
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Thank you!!! ๐
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๐ โค
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WTG! I appreciate this post. I’ve recently started blogging (the end of July) and can feel a little frustrated when a post I’m proud of doesn’t get the likes or even views, that I anticipated. Still, I feel blessed that I’m growing as a writer. I’m only at 16 followers, but that’s 16 more than I had when I started. and this month’s views are nearly as many as the previous 3 months combined (and there’s still 4 days left in the month)! I’m going to use some of your ideas beginning this week. Thanks!
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That’s wonderful you’re growing ๐ yes, it just takes some time.
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Congratulations! This was a great post! ๐
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I’m so sorry I missed this. Thank you so much!
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This is fab, huge congrats and very well deserved!! ๐
Caz x
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Thank you ๐
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Congratulations!! โค
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Thank you so much!! ๐
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Congratulations on 300 followers! It seems like you were just celebrating 200 and now you have one-hundred more already! That’s awesome! Thanks for the post ๐
~ Megan Joy
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Thank you so much!!! ๐
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Congratulations T.R.! ๐ And yes, this is your blog and you have the right to post what He has put in your heart. โค
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๐ thank you so much!!!
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Thank you from one that has now 26 followers. I’ve not been doing this seriously for long and your words are encouraging. Congratulations! I believe God increases his audience as we remain true to him.
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Thank you ๐ I believe you as well. This is only possible because of God. โค
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Congratulations on the 300, love! Well deserved!!
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Thank you so much ๐
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I truly appreciate this honest and empowering post. I have felt and experienced pretty much everything you are saying and find myself continually growing and learning to own my journey and be accountable to my work. Bless you and thank you for this wisdom packed work that has all the power of true faith in it!
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โค thank you so much for your kind words!
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You are very welcome. I am very glad you are in this space.
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๐ aw, thanks again!
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T.R. What a great example of 1 Timothy 4:12 you are. These words also apply to you: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12, ESV). You’re doing a great job pointing others to Christ. People will misconstrue messages, it’s a given. So I’ll try and remember your words that you posted here when I face the inevitable criticism that comes with sharing my faith. Thank you for your words of wisdom. God Bless You!
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Aw, thank you so much!!!! ๐ This is greatly encouraging! Peace be with you! God be with you โค
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It is indeed so important that our words edify each other. And you do an excellent job of that, by the way. My daughter and I are always encouraged by your thoughtful comments.
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Aw, thank you so much!! ๐
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Congratulations on your 300 readers ๐ Well deserved. You write what God leads you to write, you put your heart and soul out there. He leads, you follow. That’s a blessed place to be T.R. As far as the comments/lectures, well, you have God’s approval and that’s the only one that matters. Good bless you ๐
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Thank you so much!!! Your words are uplifting ๐
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Thank you so much!!
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Wow! Praise the Lord for your boldness, especially in standing/speaking up for God!
Do what you feel God leads you to do! It’s your blog! He gives where we least expect, but where He greatly uses us! Congrats on your increase! โค God loves you!
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Thank you so much ๐ the experience has been very humbling and I was torn about talking about it, cause I don’t want anyone to turn away, of course. But I just felt the need to address it so others understand what stumbles me as a believer, and to connect to others as well. Again, thank you ๐
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I delete anything (or anyone) who takes away from or intentionally insults God on here, FB, or anywhere… even family. ๐ He is worthy of being respected and protected! โค I love that God shows you the obstacles in your path, and that you wisely remove them!
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Thank you, and I’m so glad you do the same. ๐ It’s hard to understand it mainly happens from the body of believers. I was just telling God, you know, when the world who doesn’t believe has issues, I understand that, because they don’t know. But to those who do…and yet come off as a wolf. It pains my heart because no matter how it is discussed it tends to be misunderstood. But God is so good and glorious and I rejoice He guides these situations, and humbles my heart to work on prayer and being ready to handle the situations, the way Christ would. ๐ โค thank you for your words!
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It is sad when we choke one another. Your voice can make the difference. โค
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โค thank you very much โค
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Congratulations! So happy for you ๐
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Thank you ๐
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I am so happy that you have reached 300 followers, girlie! I love what youโre doing on this blog, and I appreciate what you covered in the second half of this post. Itโs difficult for younger Christians sometimes to express how the Lord is working in their lives because listeners judge us by our physical age instead of spiritual maturity. The verse you mentioned in I Timothy, I think (maybe it was the second book) about not letting others look down on us because weโre young has been a comfort to me many times. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, girl. Hereโs to the next 300 followers! โค โค โค
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โค thank you so much Maggie. I see so many feel shut down and I know that is not how Christ wants us to be put. Respectful, yes. But not trampled. ๐
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It was my pleasure. No, it certainly isnโt. ๐
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Congratulations! You are such a good writer and you deserve it. ๐โค๐
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Thank you so much! ๐ You’re so sweet!
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I decided to blog because I felt that the Lord was encouraging me to follow the gift he gave me. So it was out of obedience. Besides it is a good way to practice writing and a good platform to share me heart. I chose to only follow those that had the same vision to encourage my journey. And you are one of those people. I recently was telling my husband about some of your posts and expressed how much wisdom you carried at such a young age. You learn many things through years of life. But there are a few that carry wisdom in their youth. It is so important in this hour to have young people that stand for truth. Thank you. You will be a light for all ages, especially those in the younger crowd. God bless.
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I’m so glad you are following God ๐ thank you for your uplifting words. They mean so much. God be with yo
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Hello! This is such a lovely post. CONGRATS ON 300 followers! Yay! I was in the same position as you but I have finally found my jam! ๐ฏ You are very inspirational and kind.
Ellie x ๐โจ๐ธ
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Thank you so much ๐
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Congratulations and great tips!
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Thank you so much ๐
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Wonderful post! I also delete comments that are inappropriate.
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๐ yes, it took me a while. Cause I thought I was being rude by deleting comments I didn’t agree/felt lectured at/confused. But God showed me I don’t have to feel that way. โค
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Iโve only had to delete one comment. Iโm so thankful.
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I only had the one person constantly lecture in the comments and ignore my posts. Sometimes they would relate to the content of the post, and that was awesome. But many times, that wasn’t the case, and I just felt belittled because of it. I’m glad you haven’t had many ๐ โค
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Thatโs too bad. Itโs obviously only made you a stronger Christian writer! Iโm blessed to call you friend. ๐
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๐
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Congratulations, what a wonderful achievement. Keep on blogging!
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I am so sorry that I missed this comment! Thank you so much.
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Thank you so much ๐
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Congrats โค๏ธ
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Thank you ๐
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Congratulations!!! May God continue to bless your writing as you share your inspirations!
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Thank you so much!
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I don’t think I ever commented on this but I like. The honesty and clarity you bring to new bloggers and even bloggers who have been blogging for a few week or months.
I like in the post when you said, “… dig within yourself to find honesty, truth, connection, and care.
Especially as a believer of Christ, we need these things, but we are encouraged to remain aware of our accountability. Are we glorifying God with what we write? Are we speaking in a voice Jesus Christ would useย (cursing)?? Are we writing things that will stumble up other believers? Are we getting argumentative?ย
Sometimes, as Christians, we tend to be argumentative when it comes to opposition becuase we believe we are right, but that could also be our stumbling block.
I also liked when you said, “Above All Listen To What Christ Puts On Your Heart
Write about the hard topics even if people misunderstand. Use this as an opportunity, NOT A SETBACK! Talk about the misunderstanding, be constructive. Point to Him all throughout the way. Be willing to admit when a mistake is made, embrace humility.”
The quote above I liked becuase as we continue into the 2018 year, I want a Christ
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We can get argumentive, You are right. I try to be honest and open if I do not agree with another believer, and I let that person know sharing my perspective is not meant to belittle them or make them feel like I am not hearing what they are saying. Especially in dealing with Christian topics that do indeed spark conversation, I understand people get defensive when hearing opposition instead of the comments that agree with the post. I am very open about what I believe in, and certain things I will not waver in at all, but it is not a reason to start heated discussions, which lead to debates and arguments. I like sharing thoughts, but when people act upset or hurt from my comments I try to clarify, and after I have done this, I’ve never had any issues. Since no one can hear voice tone, we need to be careful in what we say, and make sure we clarify and apologize even if a misunderstanding was not our intention. ๐
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Sorry wasn’t done. I want Christ to put topics on my heart that help to not only strengthen me but also used to give life, strength, encouragement, and beauty to my audience.
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I think those are great topics to write about ๐ and wonderful topics to pray God gives you.
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You’re so right! It is my blog and I’m so proud of it and humbled at the same time. You’re a smart young lady. This is what I needed. Thank you
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โค Thanks, Amy!! I'm so glad this spoke to you!
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