Whitnee's journey with Christ

I was feeling a little down the other day because I could not get the coding portion right to update my website. I thought about just giving up posting on my website and explored the idea of just doing something more modern or eye catching like TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or something that would catch the eyes of more viewers. I sat and contemplated and ended up going to sleep because I began to feel anxious and overwhelmed. I knew I wasn’t going to quit because writing provides such a positive release for me; I just wanted to take a break for a few days. Then came along Willie!

Rico and I were supposed to go talk over a Mexican meal but they were closed. Instead of searching for another Mexican restaurant, we decided on Red Lobster. The hostess seated us and shortly thereafter we were greeted by a man with the most gorgeous pearly white teeth and brightest smile. He introduced himself as “Willie” and asked us what we wanted to drink. After Willie brought us a round of drinks and his suggested appetizer; my burden started to get a little lighter.

Over the next hour or so Willie and I had talked, laughed, shared, and had a good ole fashion fellowship in Red Lobster. At the time I forgot our surroundings and that he was actually working and just enjoyed our time together. He was so wise for his young age. By the looks of it he was in his early 30’s. While he talked I thought maybe he could make the perfect spouse for Faith!

He shared his testimony about how he was hit by a car at the age of 10. His mom had given up on him due to the doctors diagnosis and how things were looking but thank God he had a praying sister. His sister prayed over him night and day and as he began to get his strength; he too prayed the same prayer. At the age of 10 God healed him and in return he gave his life to Christ. Being born and raised in West Africa, culture was a lot different than it is now.

I was amazed at how him being a waiter at Red Lobster he was able to support his mom, 3 siblings, and other relatives all whom live back home in West Africa while taking care of himself here when the average American cannot survive off of own regular paying job yet alone take care of entire family.

He testified, he inspired, he encouraged, he challenged us, and he prayed with us. He told Rico to make sure he is setting a good example for the young men and women looking up to him and to make good choices. He encouraged me to not give up and to continue writing and spreading Gods love through my writing. He challenged me to explore outside of my comfort zone but stay true to what God has tasked me to do.

I could go on and on about how he made my heart glad but I will tell you I’ll always cherish those moments inside of Red Lobster.

Willie from West Africa asked me to pray over his life and that God provide clear discernment on what it is He would have Willie to do. He asked for prayer in regards to what His life’s purpose was and him to hear God’s voice clearly. And so we prayed and we will continue to pray.

Before leaving Willie showered me with more gifts, praises, food, and blessings.

I sat in the car in amazement. Moments later Rico and I looked up and we saw Willie leaving and walking away in the dark. I thought about giving him a ride but didn’t want to be weird. When I headed in his direction, he vanished into thin air.

Could Willie from West Africa had been an Angel? Could he have been Rico and I God send to try to get things together and do what God has tasked us to do. Could we have walked into Red Lobster in search of more than just endless shrimp? Could Willie’s message been what God had been trying to say to me all along?

So many questions and I thank God for another day to find the answers.

Willie said, “every day we have a chance to live, but we only die once!” He then asked, “What are we doing with our time?”

So this morning I ask you are you being lazy and wasting your time worrying about things that are irrelevant or not important? Are you being productive or just wasting time on foolishness? Are you using your time wisely or living your life in regret? Are you stuck on yesterday and not looking and thinking about today? Are you in a place of grief and can’t find your way out? Do you need clarity before you take that leap of faith?

Whatever it is, whatever your reason is, whatever or whomever is in your way from doing what God has placed on your heart to do- step away and focus.

For me it was getting out of my own head. It was realizing that though everyone may not respond, may not read, may not like the length of your writing, your style, or may not even like me…God is still being glorified! I had to realize my writing isn’t for everyone and even if they don’t read but look at the Instagram Reels, the scripture of the day on FB, my smile on Snapchat, or an in person interaction, IM STILL DOING WHAT GOD PLACED ON MY HEART TO DO!

To Willie from West Africa if you ever read this, I want to personally thank you for being a God send to me. Thank you for speaking so plainly, boldly, and wisely. We may have come into the place not knowing each other but we came out loving one another. That’s the grace of our Lord. You have changed my life forever and I’m better because of you.

Scripture reading for today is Psalm 39:4-13 with emphasis on verses 4&5. Life is so short, nowadays it’s going by faster than lightning. Let’s do our due diligence and live wisely and make better choices. We aren’t perfect but when we know better, we do better!

Blessings upon your day my sisters and brothers.