BecomingGolden

WRITTEN BY ADV. BROWNIE EBAL AND VICTORIA NAKIYIMBA AND EDITED BY KASI EDITORIAL SERVICES

The journey of life is an unpredictable adventure, much like the life of Joseph. It is easy to focus on the unfortunate events, the setbacks that seem to derail us from our dreams, but what if those setbacks are stepping stones designed to prepare us for our destiny? What if, instead of viewing them as burdens, we saw them as an unpaid internship—a rigorous, often thankless experience that’s moulding us into who we are meant to be?

Yvonne Orji does not shy away from embracing both faith and fun, refusing to choose between the two because, as she puts it, “I am greedy like that.” This perspective challenges the notion that faith must be sombre, or devoid of joy. Instead, she shows us that these two elements can coexist harmoniously, each enhancing the other.

As we navigate life, it is tempting to search for the fine print, to understand every twist and turn before it happens. However, Yvonne advises against it. Instead of worrying about what is written in the margins of our life contracts, we should stay the course. Yes, the world might seem like it is conspiring against us at times, but those are merely the hidden details that are necessary to shape our journey. Every challenge, every heartbreak, every delay is woven into the fabric of our destiny, guiding us to where we are meant to be.

The critical question we face is not whether we will encounter difficulties, but rather, “What do you do with what you have you got?” Do you recognize the gifts you have been given? Do you protect and nurture them, or do you dismiss them as insignificant? Yvonne draws a parallel to Jesus and His disciples. To the outside world, they were a band of misfits—unremarkable, flawed, and ordinary. Yet, these were the very people Jesus chose to walk with, not because they were perfect, but because they were chosen to be perfected. This leads to a powerful realization: God doesn’t choose the perfect; He perfects the chosen. Too often, we disqualify ourselves from the great things God has in store because we see our imperfections as obstacles. We fail to realize that it is through these imperfections that God’s power shines brightest.

For Yvonne, the trauma of being bullied as a child haunted her, convincing her that her humor—her gift—was a vulnerability that would lead to rejection. Even though she had been performing stand-up comedy successfully since 2006, she still struggled to believe that her humor could have the impact God promised. Like Sarah, who laughed at the idea of bearing a child in her old age, Yvonne scoffed at the notion that her humor could be used for something great. And like Moses, she sought a way out, asking God to use something less terrifying to fulfill her purpose. But God does not work that way. He takes the very things we are most afraid of and uses them to glorify His name. The key is to show up—because showing up is half the battle. The other half? Being prepared when it is time to go. Yvonne emphasizes the importance of doing our part so that God can do His. It is about showing up with intention, ready to take on whatever comes our way, and trusting that God will show off His power in our lives.

So start now. Show God you mean business and watch as He pours out His blessings. The life of your dreams is not just a possibility—it is the destiny that has been waiting for you all along.

There are moments when we hesitate to bring what we consider insignificant matters to God—like finding paint on sale or deciding what to wear for an important meeting. We tell ourselves that God has bigger prayers to answer, that our small concerns would be a waste of His time. Here’s the thing: God is the Author of Time. He does not need anyone to micromanage it for Him. He is not too busy for you, and your worries, no matter how small they seem, are not a nuisance to Him.

Before we can be truly bamboozled by Jesus—led into the life of our dreams—we have to grant God access to every part of our lives, even the intricate, seemingly insignificant spaces. It might look like asking Him which college to attend or seeking His help to shake off nerves before a first date. Whatever it is, know that He delights in sweating the small stuff with you.

Often, we underestimate the power of these little moments and dismiss them, thinking they’re too subtle to matter. These subtle moments never truly go away; they lie dormant, waiting to be discovered and cultivated by God’s hand. In these quiet spaces, God is already at work, setting the stage for something greater than we can imagine.

When Jesus called Paul an “instrument,” it wasn’t just a title—it was a declaration of purpose. An instrument is “a means whereby something is achieved, performed, or furthered.” It is not simply about existing; it is about being used to accomplish something significant. Just like Paul, we are instruments in God’s hands, meant to achieve, perform, and further His plans.

Yet, there’s always that moment of hesitation. You find yourself vacillating between a “yes” that you know will advance your purpose and the quicksand of doubt and uncertainty that holds you back. Here’s a bit of encouragement: go all-in. Dive headfirst into that “yes,” because every time you agree to God’s plans, you align yourself with the next set of hurdles and triumphs that will catapult you closer to your purpose. The crazy part is, most of the time, your “yes” isn’t even about you. Saying “yes” to God often sets you up to be used in ways that are both rewarding and terrifying. Your participation will be requested at inconvenient times, in ways that don’t fit your carefully crafted five-year plan, and in moments when you feel least qualified for the job. Always remember, it’s not about you. God’s not picking you because you’re the best or the brightest—He’s picking you because He wants to mould you into an even better version of yourself and deepen your understanding of Him.

Take Esther, for example. Her selection for greatness was not a reflection of her own greatness, but rather a testament to God’s strategic positioning. All He needed was her willing participation, and He would take care of the rest. Yet, like many of us, Esther had become comfortable—pacified by pleasure and complacency. She was not eager to ruffle any feathers, just as many of us resist stepping out of our comfort zones. Then came what the “Mordecai Moment.” Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, snapped her back to reality, reminding her that God could raise up someone else if she wasn’t willing. It wasn’t that the Jews needed Esther specifically; they were simply offering her an opportunity to be part of God’s master plan. The truth is, your willingness isn’t doing God any favors. He is inviting you to be part of something bigger, to step into your purpose and grow in ways you never thought possible.

God’s plan is going to move forward with or without you, but He’s offering you the chance to be part of it—to be bamboozled by His love, grace, and strategic positioning. In the process, He will transform you into the person you were always meant to be. So, whether it is a decision as small as buying paint on sale or as significant as stepping into your calling, invite God into every detail. Say “yes” to His plans, and watch as He uses you to achieve, perform, and further His kingdom in ways that will leave you in awe.

The journey towards living a purposeful life is not one where you skate by unfazed, untested, or unchallenged. In fact, it is often the opposite. When you say “yes” to God, when you step out in faith—even in the face of uncertainty—doors of favor start to open for you. Sometimes you just have to “faith it ‘til you make it,” as Yvonne Orji says. Like Esther, that one bold move could be the catalyst for God to align the right people, with the right influence, to step in on your behalf.

Don’t miss out on your blessing because you are stuck between reason and logic. It is easy to ask, “What if it doesn’t work?” But what if, instead, you asked, “What if it does?” Imagine the possibilities—not just for yourself, but for everyone connected to you. God’s ability, coupled with your availability, can lead to infinite possibilities. He knows your final destination, even when the path seems unclear to you.

We can’t afford to go around beating ourselves up. We already have a real-life adversary—the devil—who’s working overtime to steal our dreams, joy, and peace. He wants nothing more than to see us fail, but we shouldn’t help him in his hustle. Remember, you are dangerous to the enemy’s camp. If you weren’t, he wouldn’t be so pressed to see you fall. The attacks you face are evidence of the greatness inside you that makes the enemy tremble. You have been genetically predisposed to foil his plans, so don’t give up easily.

Whatever you choose, say it boldly and say it often. This is how you renew your mind, as Romans 12:3 suggests. Replace thoughts of losing with winning. Swap out “barely enough” with the belief for more. Exchange hopelessness for a blessed assurance. We have all been designed for greatness because God Himself is great, and if He lives in us, then our default setting is to be great as well.

It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that anyone could do what you do. The truth is, not everyone sees or does things the way you do. Your ability to encourage others, connect random dots, pay attention to the minutest details, and cultivate relationships—these are examples of your unique gifts, your special sauce. Once you discover it, never dilute it. The underwater-down version of you is about to be a hot commodity. Yes, there are others in the game who are just as good, or maybe even better, but don’t let that defeat you before you even start.

When you start to wonder how someone like you—from the family you’re from, the city you live in, with the tough breaks you’ve had, and the money you don’t have—could dream this improbable dream, remind yourself to be strong and courageous. The unfiltered, undiluted version of you is exactly what the world needs, and there’s a seat at the table with your name on it. Don’t disqualify yourself just because someone else sat down before you. Who cares if your meal is still baking? When it’s ready, it will be exactly what is needed.

God is giving you a blank disc today, erasing every thought that he never programmed in you, and dubbing his original purpose back into you. Knowing whose you are in your relationship with God should empower you with an unshakable confidence that settles every matter.

There was a time when Yvonne couldn’t imagine someone giving away a car for free, just to bless someone else. It seemed like an impossible level of generosity. Yet, in a desperate moment, she found herself needing God to perform a similar miracle. It didn’t make sense—when she had a job, she was taking the bus, but now, unemployed, God was telling her to go buy a car. With what money? But she realized that He was stretching her faith. God was using a desperate situation to remind her that if He said it, He meant it, and He would represent it.

Some of your angels are bored to death, waiting on standby, ready to move on your behalf, but do you know the difference between who you are and whose you are?

Once Yvonne grasped this truth, it altered how she reacted to setbacks. Instead of panicking, she reminded herself that while she might be taking a hit now, it wouldn’t be like this always—and it wasn’t. She needed to hear a testimony, but instead, God turned her into one. Just like David stood before Goliath with unshakable belief, knowing that if God was for him, no giant could stop him, that same belief will set you apart. It is what will make the difference between you and other students vying for the same scholarship. It is what will distinguish you from your single friends who believe there are no more good men or women left in the world. This faith, this unwavering confidence in God’s plan for your life, is what will propel you into life you were always meant to live.

When doubt creeps in, when fear tries to paralyze you, remember: God’s ability, coupled with your availability, can lead to infinite possibilities. Say “yes,” and watch as God takes you from where you are to places you never thought possible. When you truly tap into the power of knowing whose you are, you are bound to ruffle some feathers. People might be upset that you dared to do what they couldn’t, but their insecurities and shortcomings aren’t your responsibility—that’s what therapy is for. Look at David: young, short, and underestimated, but definitely nobody’s pawn. When his brother tried to belittle him, David didn’t waste time arguing; he simply turned away. That turn-away is key—it is about not getting bogged down by others’ doubts or negativity.

Even the king tried to box David in by listing all the reasons why his plan would fail. But David knew better—his resume wasn’t just about fighting battles; it was about protecting his father’s sheep from lions and bears. Goliath was just another challenge, and David was ready to face it, not with brute strength, but with unwavering faith. Those repeated battles you face aren’t there to wear you out; they’re your training ground, preparing you to face the Goliaths in your own life. When you realize that you’re fighting from the strength of your faith rather than your own power, the odds start tipping in your favor.

Da Good Book urges us to strip off every unnecessary weight that holds us back and to run our own race. David did just that—he didn’t rely on bigger and flashier resources, but on what God had given him, even if it seemed insignificant. Everything God has put in you equips you for the battles ahead, and everything He is to you prepares you for success. He set it up that way and will do everything in His power to defend it.

“Faith’n it” isn’t about denying your problems; it’s about choosing to believe for better despite them. Some of your biggest blessings will not be obvious or easy; they will come disguised as beautiful burdens—hurdles that feel like chores and show up at the most inconvenient times. But these are the blessings that, when unwrapped, reveal God’s true intentions for your life.

Success doesn’t come overnight. It often requires long nights, tough lessons, and perseverance. Yvonne Orji learned that it took her seven years to be discovered, and in that time, she realized that success is created when strife has been perfected. That pressure you feel in tough times exposes the true colors of your faith life. You would be doing yourself a disservice if you quit prematurely. Let patience marinate in you so that you’re not half-baked in faith.

Remember, a delay isn’t a denial. It is in those moments of pressure that your true strengths and weaknesses are revealed, and where the catalyst for change in your life is formed. Like a diamond created from carbon under heat, time, and pressure, your trials are shaping you to shine. It is not easy to stand up for your beliefs, especially in environments that don’t support them, but that pressure is what God uses to prune you for your purpose.

It is a strange feeling to be the strong one—the one who makes everyone laugh, who encourages others—only to find yourself in need of encouragement when nothing seems funny anymore. But even when you’re exhausted, life moves on, and sometimes, all you can do is take things one small step at a time. Every day, Yvonne galvanized herself with small maybes: “Maybe this is temporary,” “Maybe there’s still some fight in me,” “Maybe God hasn’t forgotten about me.” These small steps helped her face each day with expectancy.

When you’re feeling worn out, it is okay to rest. Take a nap if you need it, because you’re not yourself when you’re tired. Remember, money without purpose eventually runs out, while purpose produces seeds that grow into trees, constantly generating fruit. In one short year, Yvonne went from impossible to all things being possible, but that only happened when she gave her all to the One who gave His all. What are you holding in your hands that needs to be transferred to God’s? The minute we think we can do life on our own terms; we limit God’s ability to work in us. Surround yourself with people who inspire hope, because the wrong voices can breed dissension.

God wants us to acknowledge His presence in our lives, especially in how we respond to tough times. Some people may never set foot in a church, but they will see how you handle setbacks at the next cookout or holiday party. Will your response be enough to inspire them to believe? Yvonne decided she loved God more than she feared disappointing her parents. God provided bite-sized blessings to guide her to the next step. That is the protocol for living a purpose-driven life.

There comes a point when you have to sacrifice the familiar to take hold of the fantastic. The familiar waits for life to happen, but the fantastic grabs it by the horns—and Yvonne was holding on with both hands. She cleared her schedule, blocked out dates, and took the leap, even when the few people she knew were unavailable. But God orchestrated time, space, preparation, and opportunity to collide in perfect harmony. When your number gets called, you have to be ready. Don’t miss your moment because you weren’t prepared.

As a recent Instagram post said, “No one else is supposed to understand your calling; it wasn’t a conference call.” Nobody was checking for Jeremy Lin to send shockwaves through the world until he did. If he had let his past dictate his potential, there would be no “Linsanity.” Similarly, Noah built the ark in holy fear, despite ridicule. Expand your world, even if no one else gets it. Stay focused, do the work, and when your moment comes, you’ll go from being called crazy to making the world go crazy.

God never wastes a lesson. Even if you dislike the class or feel frustrated by the tests, it is important to pass them. When you fully surrender your frustrations to God, He can provide answers beyond your imagination. Just when you think you have everything figured out, God can still surprise you with moves you did not anticipate. He is already in your tomorrow today, so if He asks you to do something unconventional, just go with it.

Bishop T.D. Jakes once said that we often misrepresent ourselves to others, creating excuses that justify why we haven’t achieved more. God doesn’t want you to stay small. Why settle for second place when first place is already reserved for you?

An Instagram post said it best: “Don’t ever settle. Not for a job, a man, an acrylic set not shaped correctly—nothing.” God has promised you more than mediocrity, and you shouldn’t settle for less than His best for you.

Fear is a major obstacle, often more damaging than regret. It is a false perception of danger, like the Wizard of Oz’s smokescreen. Just as Dorothy discovered that the Wizard was an ordinary man behind a curtain, fear is merely an illusion designed to hold you back. In contrast, regret is more harmful because it represents missed opportunities.

One fundamental principle that has propelled many forward, is hating regret more than fear. If fear is trying to stop you, remember: one bad night doesn’t dictate your entire destiny. Even when faced with anxiety and doubt, pushing through is often the only way to avoid regret. In moments when fear threatens to derail you, consider the worst-case scenario of going for it.

Then, go for it anyway. When God pushes you out of your comfort zone, embrace it. The worst that could happen is a learning experience, and the best could be a significant breakthrough.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us to keep doing good, even when it seems like we are getting nowhere. “Don’t get tired of doing what is good,” the verse says, because in time, it will pay off if we don’t give up. Even if you feel sidelined, there is a win with your name on it. When it comes, God will make it worth the wait.

Throughout her journey, Yvonne Orji learned the value of serving others. She treated everyone with kindness, which led her from being an unpaid intern to securing significant opportunities. This attitude of service, regardless of status, opened doors and allowed her to make an impact. Your big break might come disguised as grunt work or seemingly thankless tasks. Don’t overlook these opportunities. What you do for others—your kindness, generosity, and hard work—will eventually come back to you. The seeds you sow today will grow into the fruits of tomorrow. Jesus taught that greatness comes from serving others. To be first, you must be last; to be great, you must be a servant. His favor can elevate you faster than a lifetime of labor. From intern to series regular, Yvonne’s story is a testament to the transformative power of God’s favour and the impact of faithful service.

Favor has the power to open doors and create opportunities in unexpected ways. Even when you don’t realize it, favor can make your name known in places you haven’t yet been. For example, Yvonne Orji’s encounter with Chris Rock happened through favor, even though he was not present at her comedy show. It is a reminder that, regardless of your current status or achievements, you have inherent worth and potential.

In a similar vein, comparing yourself to others often leads to disappointment and frustration. The story of the workers receiving different wages highlights how comparisons can cause dissatisfaction and make you lose sight of your own blessings. The workers who were hired first became upset when they saw the latecomers receiving the same pay. This comparison blinded them to the good deal they had originally agreed to. Favor can sometimes seem unfair because it doesn’t always follow conventional protocols or timelines. It is important to remain humble and not take credit for it, as you cannot work for or earn favor—it is a gift. While some might react with jealousy or negativity when they see you benefiting from favor, it’s crucial not to apologize or feel guilty for it. Keep your heart light and focus on your own journey rather than comparing it to others. When dealing with setbacks or feelings of inadequacy, remember that comparisons can be a distraction from the good things happening in your life. Embrace the opportunities and recognition you do receive and continue to focus on your craft rather than trying to fit into mainstream trends or spaces prematurely.

Steven Furtick’s insight on receiving God’s “yes” with praise and His “no” with trust emphasizes that even perceived delays are part of a divine plan. Trust that God’s timing is perfect, and His refusal or delay might be preparing you for something better. By staying grateful and focusing on your own growth, you will align with the favor God has for you. The essence of this message is to remain authentic, value your unique contributions, and not let external factors or comparisons diminish your self-worth. Embrace your journey with gratitude and confidence, knowing that favor and integrity will guide you towards greater success.

This passage emphasizes the importance of faith and expectation when asking for God’s blessings. Rather than limiting ourselves with modest requests, we should approach God with boldness, bringing “big bags” that challenge our faith and expand our capacity. By doing so, we show our trust in His abundant resources and power. The idea is to avoid self- sabotage and negative thinking, which can undermine our potential and limit what we receive. When we act from a place of fear rather than faith, we inadvertently block the very opportunities we are seeking. Instead, we should focus on our growth and stay hydrated—metaphorically speaking—by nurturing our well-being and continuing to evolve.

Additionally, this message underscores the importance of not letting comparisons or negative feedback hinder our progress. It is natural to face setbacks and criticism, but these should not deter us from our path. As we navigate challenges, we should remember that God’s wisdom far exceeds human understanding, and His plans are designed to benefit us in ways we might not fully comprehend.

By embracing our own journey, focusing on our craft, and maintaining our integrity, we align ourselves with God’s purpose and promise. The passage encourages us to be resilient, continue striving for excellence, and trust that even our detractors will eventually serve to elevate us rather than bring us down.

This passage from Yvonne Orji’s book provides a candid look at personal growth and the obstacles that often impede it. It highlights four key traits that can hinder our progress:

1. Stagnation of Validation: Relying too heavily on external validation can leave us vulnerable to others’ opinions. If our self-worth is tied to praise, disapproval can deeply affect us.

2. Asinine Co-signing: Seeking constant agreement from others can stifle personal growth. Those who thrive on co-signs may limit their circle to those who always agree with them, rather than expanding their perspectives.

3. Blatancy of Complacency: Being inspired without taking actionable steps leads to stagnation. True growth comes from putting plans into practice, not just dreaming about them.

4. Processing the Blessing: Sometimes, we need to surround ourselves with people who challenge us and keep us accountable. Growth requires honest feedback and constructive criticism.

Orji encourages embracing self-care and recognizing personal value without compromising core values. Her suggested daily affirmations aim to bolster self-belief and faith, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal growth with a strong spiritual foundation. The message is to stay resilient, pursue meaningful action, and remain confident in one’s journey, trusting that divine guidance and support are always at work.

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