Here are five ways to reflect to Live Your Faith Louder. TH E COST OF LOVE. The Cross is not just a symbol of suffering, but of sacrificial love. What does it mean that love costs something? Jesus didn’t just tell us He loved us — He showed us. How might you embody that kind of love in our own relationships and communities? IT IS FINISHED … BUT NOT OVER. Jesus’ words, “It is finished,” (John 19:30) mark the completion of His mission — but not the end of the story. Reflect on areas of your life where things feel final or broken. Could God still be writing the next chapter? THE HOP E HIDDEN IN THE TOMB . The day between Good Friday and Easter —Holy Saturday — is often overlooked. Yet it represents waiting, the in-between, the uncertainty. We are living in some very uncertain times. Reflect on what it means to hold onto hope when nothing seems to be happening. Though you may be struggling, let faith arise — before the manifestation of answered prayer. YOUR CROSS TO CARRY. Jesus said, “Take up your cross and follow me.” What does that look like in your real, daily life — not in a dramatic way, but in ordinary faithfulness? Is there something Jesus is inviting you to lay down, or pick up, as a result of His sacrifice? How can you live your faith LOUDER each day. Start today by inviting someone to church on Sunday. CHO OSE TO FORGIVE. It’s not about the person who hurt you. It’s about you. It’s about the promises God has for your life. God desires that we have a loving heart that is kind and serves others. Satan desires that we have a hard heart that lashes out at others and struggles to accept God’s love and blessings. If you need help with forgiving, reach out to a strong Christian friend or a pastor to help walk you out of unforgiveness, or order a copy of a new book recently released. Ten women share about how they overcame bitterness and the new freedom they've found. Order a copy: https://a.co/d/cPGixQs

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” While this idea may seem simple, its truth runs deep. The people we surround ourselves with have a profound impact on our mindset, our faith, and our ability to step into the life God has for us. I was recently reminded of this during our first session of the 4x4 Coaching Cohort—where the power of the right circle was on full display. One of the participants shared a heartfelt testimony that struck a chord with everyone in the room. She reflected on how this group of women, all gathered for the same purpose, was exactly what she needed to start breaking free from her past and stepping boldly into her future. She realized that God was using this new circle of women to reposition her, to help her remove the roadblocks that had held her back for so long. Her words were filled with gratitude, energy, and excitement, but they also carried a deeper message—one that I believe is relevant to us all: the right circle of people can change everything. Why Your Circle Matters Think about the people you spend the most time with. Are they encouraging you to grow, to pursue your purpose, to live out the calling God has placed on your life? Or are they holding you back, limiting your potential, and keeping you in a place of stagnation? The truth is, we can’t fulfill God’s purpose for our lives in isolation. We need community. We need people around us who will speak life into us, push us when we’re feeling uncertain, and challenge us to step outside of our comfort zones. When Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another,” it’s not just talking about casual relationships. It’s speaking to the kind of deep, meaningful connections that help shape us into the people we are meant to be. A good circle of people won’t let you stay where you are. They will call you higher, not in a way that feels forced or judgmental, but in a way that reflects God’s love and desire for you to grow. Breaking Free with the Right Circle During our coaching session, it became evident that the women in the room weren’t just there for themselves—they were there for each other. There was a divine connection, a shared mission to encourage, uplift, and support one another as they journeyed toward their God-given purpose. And isn’t that what we all long for? To be surrounded by people who truly see us, who understand our struggles, and who believe in our potential even when we doubt it ourselves? The participant who shared her testimony realized that, for the first time in a long time, she wasn’t alone in her struggles. She had found a circle that was not only helping her see her worth but was actively guiding her toward the breakthrough she so desperately needed. And here’s the beautiful part—God often uses the people in our lives to bring about the change we’ve been praying for. Building Your Circle So, how do you cultivate a circle that sharpens you, lifts you up, and helps you grow? Here are a few steps to consider: Seek out alignment in values: Surround yourself with people whose values and beliefs align with your own. These are the people who will encourage you to stay true to your faith and purpose. Be intentional about connection: It’s not enough to just be around positive people. Intentionally nurture these relationships, share your dreams, and be open to accountability. Let go of what holds you back: Sometimes, growing in faith and purpose means letting go of relationships that no longer serve you. It’s not easy, but pruning is necessary for new growth. Be that person for others: Just as you need a strong circle, others do too. Be the friend, mentor, or supporter that someone else needs to move forward in their journey. The Power of a God-Ordained Circle The testimony shared in our first session reminded me of just how powerful God’s timing is. He knows who we need and when we need them. He positions people in our lives to help us heal, grow, and step into our callings. The key is to be open to those connections, to recognize when God is placing the right people in your life, and to lean into those relationships with intention and gratitude. So, who’s in your circle today? Are you surrounded by people who see your potential, who challenge you to grow, and who encourage you to pursue God’s purpose for your life? If not, maybe it’s time to make a shift. Seek out those connections that will sharpen you, support you, and help you step into the fullness of what God has planned for you. Your circle matters. It could be the very thing that propels you into your next level of purpose and growth. Surround yourself with those who lift you higher, and watch as God uses those relationships to transform your life. Want to join the cohort? Learn more here .