A Journey of Grace: Celebrating Another Year of Faith and Resilience

Today, I celebrate another year of life—another year of growth, stretching, and divine redirection. Birthdays always make me pause. Not just to celebrate but to reflect on how far I've come, what I've learned, and where God is leading me next.

The last few years have been a whirlwind. From launching JoiB Consulting to equipping churches and couples through Beyond The Aisle™️, creating a faith-based product line during a global pandemic with Declarations By BTA, and bringing visions to life through JoiEvents Co., I've learned more than I ever imagined—about business, faith, and myself.

If there's one thing I know for sure, it's this: keep going, even when it gets hard. Rest if you must. But even when the results don't match your expectations, even when you're questioning whether you're on the right path, keep going, remembering that growth happens in the tension. And if you can push through, you'll be amazed at what's waiting on the other side.

So, in the spirit of another year around the sun, here are some lessons I've learned along the way.

The Blueprint: Lessons That Shaped Me

1. The Holy Spirit: The Ultimate Helper

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." — John 14:26

There is no strategy better than being led by the Holy Spirit. Period. I've learned that before I make a move—before I draft a plan, say yes to an opportunity, or shift directions—I need to start with Him. The moments when I've tried to do things with my own strength have always led to unnecessary stress. The moments when I've surrendered and sought God first? Those were the moments when doors opened, clarity came, and provision met me right where I was.

2. Tap Into Your Existing Strengths

So often, we look at what we don't have instead of maximizing what we do. I used to think I had to be everything to everyone to succeed, but I've learned there's power in operating from your strengths. The skills, gifts, and experiences I already had—those were enough. The key wasn't chasing something new but learning how to refine and expand what was already in my hands.

3. The Art of Juggling vs. Balancing

Managing multiple businesses, responsibilities, and roles has taught me that balance isn't about doing everything equally—it's about knowing what requires your focus in each season. Some things will need more of you at different times, and that's okay. Instead of feeling guilty about what's not getting attention, I've learned to be present where I am and trust that what's for me will not pass me by.

4. Etch It on Paper, Not on Stone

Planning is essential. Strategy is important. But if there's anything these past few years have taught me, it's that being too rigid can block what God is trying to do. I've had to pivot in ways I never expected, and each shift has brought me closer to the vision He had for me all along. I still plan, but I hold those plans loosely—allowing room for God to move in ways I may not have anticipated.

5. Relationship Is Currency

More than money, more than expertise, relationships open doors. The people you serve, the connections you build, the integrity with which you handle your work—it all matters. Some of the biggest opportunities I've received weren't because of a pitch or a marketing strategy; they came because of who I had built trust with over time.

Keep Going. It's Worth It.

If you're in a season where things feel uncertain, the road ahead isn't clear, and you're wondering if all the effort is worth it, keep going.

I won't say it's easy, but I will say it's worth it. The stretching, the refining, the lessons—it's all leading somewhere greater than you can imagine.

So, here's to another year of learning, building, and becoming. Here's to trusting God more, holding plans loosely, and showing up fully for what He's called me to do. And here's to you—for pressing forward, for believing in the vision He's given you, and for staying the course even when it's hard.

Let's keep building.