Keep Showing Up

Scripture: "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin..." —Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)

When I started my PhD in Organizational Leadership at 47, I felt both called and crazy.

Called—because I knew God was inviting me deeper into my purpose, to steward my story, to shape systems, to help others lead from a whole place.

Crazy—because I was already balancing so much: family, ministry, podcasting, consulting, coaching, financial pressure, my health. And then I decided to add a doctoral program?

But here’s the thing: I couldn’t shake the assignment. It wasn’t just about getting a degree. It was about obedience. It was about becoming the future version of myself that God had already seen.

Some days, the reading feels endless. Some nights, my brain is fried before I even open SPSS. There are moments when imposter syndrome knocks loud at the door—“You really think you belong here?”

But God keeps whispering, “Just keep showing up.”

So I do. I show up to early mornings. I show up to long papers. I show up to messy drafts and sleepless nights and unfamiliar stats. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s sacred.

Because every study session, every discussion post, every breakthrough is an act of worship.

It’s not just about learning. It’s about becoming. Not just achieving. But aligning with the deeper call on my life.

Reflection Questions:

• Where is God asking you to show up—even when it’s hard?

• What small beginnings are you tempted to despise right now?

• How can your current grind become an act of worship?

Prayer: God, give me grace to keep showing up. Even when it’s slow. Even when it’s hard. Remind me that every small step matters to you. Let my learning be an offering, my obedience be worship, and my persistence be a witness. Make me into who you already see. Amen.