What a blessed journey this year has been! As I reflect on September, I can see how this month has always been one of breakthroughs for me. Many of the things I’ve prayed for—sometimes for years—have come to fruition through God’s faithfulness. There are moments when I’ve stood in awe of how He works in our lives, reminding me that He is always listening, always present, even when we feel like we’re waiting.
In Xhosa, September is called eyoMsintsi, named after the Cape chestnut tree, which bursts into bloom with pink flowers. This period is known as a time of renewal, signaling the start of something fresh, much like the breakthroughs I’ve experienced this past month. I’m sure many of you may have felt similar moments of growth or new beginnings during September, too.
Now, as we step into October, a time to reflect and consolidate, I feel drawn to the concept of stewardship. The breakthroughs we experience are not random—they come with the responsibility to take care of what we’ve been given, to nurture it, and to use it wisely. So, as I enter this new season, I’m asking myself some important questions: What am I consolidating? How do I build on the blessings and growth I’ve experienced? How do I prepare for what lies ahead, ensuring that I don’t lose the momentum of what has already begun?
In Xhosa, October is called eyeDwarha, the month of the first rains. These rains soften the soil, preparing it for further planting and growth. It’s a metaphor for this time in our lives: after breakthroughs, we need to nourish what has been planted in us and prepare for future seasons. Consolidation is about taking stock of what we’ve received, strengthening our foundation, and being intentional about how we carry that forward.
Tips for Consolidating Growth
As I embark on this journey of consolidation, I’ve been reflecting on how we can maintain the growth we’ve experienced, ensuring it continues to shape us. Here are a few tips that might empower you to consolidate your growth effectively:
1. Reflect on What You’ve Gained
Growth often comes with lessons and experiences that shape our perspectives. Take time to pause and reflect on what the last few months have brought into your life. What breakthroughs have you experienced, and what have they taught you about yourself, your faith, or your purpose? Journaling is a great way to capture these reflections. Writing down your experiences helps solidify the lessons and growth, allowing you to refer back to them when you need encouragement.
2. Set Intentional Goals for the Next Phase
Consolidation is not just about looking back but also about preparing for what’s ahead. Set clear, intentional goals for how you want to steward the growth you’ve received. Ask yourself: How can I continue to nurture what God has given me? What steps can I take to ensure that my progress continues? Your goals don’t have to be grand or overwhelming. Start small, with daily actions that reflect your growth and desire to continue moving forward.
3. Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful way to sustain growth. When we focus on what we’ve been given rather than what we lack, we create an environment that fosters further blessings in our hearts and minds. Take time each day to thank God for the breakthroughs you’ve received, big or small. Gratitude keeps us humble and reminds us that our growth is a gift.
4. Stay Grounded in Your Faith
Spiritual growth requires constant nourishment. Stay grounded in your faith through prayer, meditation, or simply spending time in reflection. Lean into God’s guidance as you consolidate the lessons you’ve learned, and ask Him to show you how to continue growing in this season. Remember, growth in faith is not linear. It’s a journey with moments of doubt and clarity, but each step brings you closer to a deeper understanding of God’s purpose for you.
5. Surround Yourself with the Right People
Growth is often fueled by the people we surround ourselves with. Be intentional about spending time with those who uplift and challenge you. Seek out relationships that encourage your spiritual and personal development. As you consolidate your growth, it’s crucial to have a support system that understands your journey and holds you accountable. Community is essential—find strength in fellowship, whether within your church, family, or a group of friends who share your vision for growth.
6. Embrace the Process of Becoming
Consolidation is not the end of the journey; it’s a stage in the process of becoming. Understand that growth takes time and will bring new challenges and opportunities each season. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this phase. Take pride in your progress, but stay open to the lessons that are still ahead.
Moving Forward with Confidence
As we enter October, let’s use this time of eyeDwarha, the first rains, to water the seeds of growth that have been planted in us. Just as the land is prepared for future harvests, we too must prepare ourselves for what’s next by consolidating the breakthroughs we’ve experienced. By reflecting, setting goals, cultivating gratitude, and remaining grounded in our faith, we ensure that our growth will not only be sustained but will continue to flourish in the months to come.
October is about celebrating our achievements and building a foundation for what’s to come. Let’s use this time to steward the gifts we’ve received, ensuring that our growth journey continues to shape us into the people God has called us to be.
Yours powerfully,
Zimbini.
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Wow, thank you so much for this lovely article. So inspirational and motivation. Yes, prayers move mountains and God answers in his time. Never give up hope and keep praying and keep the faith.
I’m going to be intentional with every point listed. Top of my list is cultivating gratitude
#newmonth #becoming #faith #consolidation #stewardship
What a lovely way to Kickstart this month! I’m honored ♥️
Thank you ! This was a very motivational andthought provoking article.
Love it ke sana❤
I also do feel drawn to stewardship and the tips are really helpful
Wow what a wonderful inspiring word’s I definitely love it.
Thank you so much for the lovely article…so motivational ❤️
What a beautiful article I feel like I needed to read something as inspiring.
I am deeply motivated and inspired actually grateful to be a Ruby.
#Rooted#Gratitude#Love
Your words really lifted me up..Thank you