Good Ole' Beauty Parlor Revival

I just spent 3 glorious hours in the Church of Hair and Makeup, sans kids. Cue organ music....HALLELUJAH. I feel refreshed, uplifted, encouraged and even revived. It's funny how a little pampering can boost your spirits.

My hairdresser is an awesome gal. She is truthful and funny and she loves Jesus. I really felt like we worshipped together in between the "squeezing and teasing" of my hair. "Reverend" Crystal was preachin' today. Her sermonettes so reflected my life and struggles at the moment. I feel compelled to share her wisdom in light of my own life.

It was that good.

"I always strive to tell the truth and be completely honest with myself and others." When I sat down in her chair, she looked at my hair and said, "Girl, it looks bad." O.U.C.H. From anyone else I would have defended my haggardly locks, but I knew her honesty is what I needed. I respect her point of view. I value her feedback. I look for honesty in others as a top priority. I love it when people are transparent. I strive to have genuine relationships with others who are not afraid to be bold and tell the truth. Whether you are struggling or praising don't be afraid to tell the truth. Some may view this kind of honesty as a weakness, but I see it as a strength. So many times I think we try to hide behind an invisible wall and not let others see us. That may be necessary in some relationships, but I pray that all of you have someone in your life you can be completely honest with. I know I would be miserable if I didn't have it in mine. (go on girl!)

"Two inches to a better you." I went in today with the full intent of cutting off two inches of hair. Boy, did I need it. It is funny how cutting off the bad stuff really puts a spring in your step. That is exactly what God strives to do in our lives. I sure have a lot of "dead ends" that I have been walking around with. I need to trim off the unhealthy attitudes and practices that I have allowed to grow. Pride, selfishness, LAZINESS, judgements, criticism, doubt, fear...you name it, I have it. All of us do. I want to take two inches off and see what God is growing underneath. (Are you with me?)

"The God I serve doesn't require time limits." This one hit me hard, right between the eyes. I realize that I have been wanting God to work within my time parameters. Two days for this, five months for that. GO! GO! GO! Can we move faster here, Lord? Slower, Lord. The God I love can move in an instant. His timetable is perfect. I have to trust that more. I may be missing what He has for me during the wait. (Mmmmm Hmmmmm)

"God is not done with you until you are dead." I have situations in my life that I think will never change. But as long as I am breathing, He is working. (you know it!)

"If God put any sense in your head, you will use it." We were sharing about spiritual gifts and how they are from the Lord and need to always be used for Him. Oh, but the "enemy" loves to tempts us to use those gifts for our own glory. For example, I was sharing with her that I think I have the gift of mercy/compassion. When I let God show me how to direct this gift, it is very beneficial. But the flip-side of this is martyrdom. If I am too busy helping and fussing over everyone else, but won't allow anyone to help me then I have used it wrong. I have taken what God has naturally blessed me with and used it for my own gain or glory. The same could be said about any gift. She shared that hers was discernment, but gone too far leads to a critical spirit. She finds it easy to judge and criticize all under the "umbrella" of the discernment. Whatever God gives you, give it back and use it only for Him. (Preach it, sister.)

"If you say you love someone, then show it." Make it a priority to show those you love how much they mean to you. Find the ways they receive love and follow through. Don't just assume that they know, show it. Honestly care for them. (I'm listening)

"Painted toes are so much prettier than ugly naked ones." Can I get an AMEN? She really is a wise girl.

By the way, the hair feels great and healthy. Thanks, Rev.