trials trials trials. pt. 3. ft. Malon

Trials Trials Trials. Last but certainly not least to talk about trials is the one and only Malon Stratton. Ma (pronounced may, but there's not a "Y" in her name so I spell it Ma) is my sister girl/bestie. She's the SWEETEST person anyone will ever meet and she has a huge heart for everyone. She's my best friend and constant encourager. And bonus: she came w/ me to NYC for my 16th and we had a fabo time. I love her to pieces!!

(Here's a pic) 

Have you ever faced trials?

Malon: Most definitely!!! 

Tell a story of a trial you've faced:

Malon: Being in high school is tough. Many of my friends participate in many parties that contain alcohol. They are choosing to do that and I do not want to participate in that. I think everyone has a choice of what to do with this situation. Neither choice is right or wrong, it is just based off of what you want to get yourself into. My great grandfather had a drinking problem. Therefore, my grandparents, and my parents do not intake alcohol because of that. My friends judge me because of the decision I made. They even sometimes tend to not acknowledge me around school because of this. My friends make me feel bad about my decision and it makes me question. God? Why are you letting this happen to me? My closest friends are making me feel bad about my decision, and I need help.

How did you overcome that trial?

Malon: Well, I am in the midst of this trial. I cannot exactly tell you how I overcame it, but I know how I am attempting to overcome this. Through this phase of my life, I have learned just to trust God and He will work everything out. Even those who judge you, are ugly to you, or even make fun of you, that does not mean you can’t kill them with kindness. When you fall, God is always there, lending his helping hand to those in need. I continue to pray to Him for help. When those are rude to you, kill them with kindness. That is the best thing to do. And that is exactly what God wants us to do.

How did God work in your life through that trial?

Malon: God is working everyday in my life. Every moment of every day, I learn something new from Him. He is the omnipotent God, and if anyone does not know Him, I challenge you to find someone to help you come to know Him. I guarantee if you ever need any help with getting to know God, I am in Jackson, MS.. So I might not be the best person, but I am always just a call away. But in Starkville, of course, Mary Catherine Ray is an outstanding follower of Christ. She is always willing to look out for others and she continues to lend her helping hand to those in need. She is leading her life of purpose in the best way she can. God has blessed me with more than I could ever imagine. I continue to thank Him everyday for that.

Encouraging tips for people facing trials:

Malon: First of all, I would say, even in the midst of our worst trials, we have to be hopeful and pray to our all-mighty God. He is the only one who can give us the strength to overcome trials. God places these trials in our lives not intending to make us upset, or to tear us down. God does this so we will grow closer to Him, and begin to trust Him more and more everyday. Pray to Him for strength. He is always listening and calling your name.

Bible verses:

Malon: Deuteronomy 31:8 “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Psalms 55:22 “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” 

1 Chronicles 16:29 “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name. Bring an offering and come before Him; worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness.” 

Extra:

Malon: You will never be able to tell how a person is doing throughout their day. Most kids are not as fortunate as I am to attend a wonderful school, and to be blessed with as much as I am at this point in my life. That is why every day of my life, I try to make a positive difference every day. I try my best to make something great out of everyday, because we will never know when something so valuable can be taken from us. Just a simple smile, or a helping hand can change a person’s day dramatically. I challenge everyone who reads this to know that they are so valued. We each have a purpose on this earth. God is working through our lives each and everyday to fulfill that purpose. He challenges us everyday. Continue to live a life of significance. God loves you. Be the light in someone else's day!! Never forget that we are all handpicked by God. We were put on this earth to spread the word of God and mirror His image each and everyday.

 Gracias, Malon!! 

Have a fab rest of spring break!!

From Starkville With Love, MCRAY

trials trials trials. pt.2 ft. Milla D

trials. again, bc I think getting different stories and perspectives can help a sister out. aka different views can help you out when you're facing trials.

So my "guest blogger" (I always feel like I'm a super cool host of something really great, and I'm interviewing famous ppl when I say "guest blogger" weird? Yeah.) today is Milla Davis. She's hilarious. She's beautiful. She's a soon to be a professional women's basketball player, and she wants to adopt stray animals when she's old. haha. I love her and she's my best friend/sister. So without further ado. Here's what she had to say. (But first a pic of course. personality pic) 

Have you ever faced a trial?

Milla: yes!!

Tell a story of a trial you've faced:

Milla: Well, I'm actually in a current trial right now. It's called highschool!! Everyday I struggle with how to act ( I may have what some call a dirty mouth ) and unfortunately my music is not the best either. My attitude on the basketball court is not how I would like it to be. I want to be the "salt" in life and be a good example for others, but that means sacrificing huge things!!

How did you overcome that trial?

Milla: Well, since I'm in the midst of my trial right now, I can't answer this. But, I can tell you how I'm trying to overcome it. I'm getting involved in a bunch of bible studies with my friends:). I'm reading a book called Salvaging My Identity, and it is really helping me become the woman I want to be. Also, I'm increasing my prayer life and talking to God more about it each day!! (Talking with the Lord helps a ton)

How did God work in your life through that trial?

Milla: God placed a very special person in my life to pull me back on my feet and help me to be the best I can possibly be. That person's name is Mary Catherine :). She's helped me in ways I never thought possible and I can't explain here in words how much she means to me. I'd be the exact same person I was 3 weeks ago if it wasn't for MC lifting me up so much lately. All I can say is thank you God for a friend like her. I can only hope I have half as much of an impact on her life as she has on mine!

Encouraging tips for people facing trials:

Milla: If you're like me, you're struggling with the fear of the world not accepting you, non-stop worrying about other people's opinions!! I know it's easier said than done, but think about it. Would you rather please people whose opinions are continually changing about you, or the almighty God of the universe who gave his life for you? I think we know the obvious answer here, lol.

Bible verses to read when in trials like this one:

Milla: Galations 1:10 (my favorite)

Romans 12:2

John 15:19 (hits me hard) 

Extra:

Milla: as easily as it is to conform to the world (party, drink, listen to bad music, cuss on the daily), we were hand picked by the Lord to be a bright light for others. So, I encourage you to let the Lord use you and become part of his great plan!

S/O to both of these girls (SMP, Milla D) for stepping out of their comfort zone, and telling about their trials! How great are they?

HAVE A FABULOUS WEEK!!!

From Starkville With Love, MCRAY