Author: OchiengFamily

We are a family of four and would simply love to share the love of Christ.

Strategically Positioned for Purpose

~ OchiengFamily ~ Leave a comment

God’s wisdom is undeniable—He is always intentional in His plans. Consider Moses: his assignment required him to be immersed in Egyptian society, growing up within the palace walls, learning their customs and culture. This was no coincidence. God placed him there, shaping his experiences so he would be uniquely prepared for the role ahead. No one else could have taken on this task. Moses knew Pharaoh personally; they had grown up together like brothers. He understood the nuances of Egyptian life, making him the perfect vessel for God’s mission.

If you ever feel like you’re in the wrong place, I want to remind you: you are exactly where you need to be. Whatever you are facing—whether brought on by your own choices or simply the circumstances of life—God already knew you would be in this situation. And He will use it for His glory.

There is a purpose to your journey, and the path you are walking is necessary to fulfill your assignment. One day, it will all make sense. Until then, instead of feeling lost, unseen, or misunderstood, lean into God. Sit at His feet and allow Him to love you in the way only He can, shaping and preparing you for what’s ahead. There is an assignment with your name on it—one that only you can fulfill. Your challenges are not obstacles; they are preparation for something greater.

Shalom 🙏🏼

Iamsosasmama ❤️

Childlike Faith: Approaching God with Joyful Anticipation 

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When my almost 7-year-old son found out we were going on a family trip, his excitement was uncontainable. As the days drew closer, he would rush up to me, eyes wide with joy, and declare, “We are getting on the plane!” I would smile, affirming his excitement and reminding him when the trip was happening. With a satisfied grin, he would walk away, only for the anticipation to bubble up again moments later.

The night before our departure, I overheard him talking to himself, laughing hysterically from sheer excitement. When I checked on him, I was struck by how deeply he was looking forward to this moment. Acknowledging his enthusiasm, I gently reminded him that he needed to sleep since we would be heading out early.

As I reflected on what to blog about this week, the Holy Spirit brought this memory to mind, reminding me of how God desires for us to approach Him like little children. Just as my son eagerly anticipated getting on that plane, our Heavenly Father longs for us to come to Him with the same excitement and expectation—ready to receive the wonderful things He wants to show and teach us through His Holy Spirit.

“Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” Mark 10:15 (New Kings James Version)

These words of Jesus Himself reveal the heart of our faith. God calls us to draw near to Him without hesitation, free from the distractions, doubts, and fears of this world. Instead, He desires that we approach Him with joy, simplicity, and a deep trust that He will guide us through His Spirit.

It is my prayer for you today that you open your heart to the Lord without reservation. Faith in God is not as complicated as the world makes it seem. Give Jesus a chance today, and let Him shape you into the wonder He created you to be. You were made for His purpose—just as a product is designed by its creator, we are designed by Him.

Shalom 🙏🏼

iamsosasmama ❤️

Spiritual Famine—Is That What I’ve Been Experiencing?

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Even though I’ve remained diligent in my time with God, I’ve found myself in moments where it felt like I was merely going through the motions. Truthfully, I am still in that place, wondering why. I’ve searched for understanding, asking questions, but received no clear answer—until this morning.

Today, my prayer time turned into a crying session, though I couldn’t pinpoint the reason for my tears. At first, I thought I was upset with my husband—about something he didn’t even realize he had done. But instead of speaking negativity over my marriage, I simply sat in silence, tears falling, asking the Holy Spirit to bring clarity to my thoughts and take my sorrow as my prayer.

Eventually, I drifted to sleep and was awakened by a dream—something I haven’t experienced in a long time. This left me questioning my current spiritual state. As I wrote down my dream and pondered its meaning, I prayed against the negativity, as I always do with my night visions. Yet, my heart longed for deeper understanding. Then, I heard the words Amos 8:8 in my spirit.

For context, I read the entire chapter, then continued studying and researching. That’s when I realized—God was speaking about spiritual famine. It made me reflect: Had I been experiencing a spiritual famine without even realizing it?

Let me ask you, dear reader—have you ever found yourself in a situation like this? Truthfully, I believe the church at large is facing this very struggle without recognizing it. In today’s world, churches often dilute the Word of God, avoiding offense rather than standing firm in biblical truth. Sound doctrine is being abandoned, replaced with teachings that cater to itching ears. But I digress—let me return to my own experience.

What does spiritual famine look like on a personal level? Could it be an inconsistency in Bible study and prayer? A lack of obedience? Oh no—could that be it? Lord, is there something You’ve asked of me that I have yet to do? Abba, have mercy.

Even though I’ve maintained my spiritual practices, I’ve sensed an urgent need to inquire about the state of my heart. And God answered—through my tears. He truly holds our tears in His hands (Psalm 56:8).

I am still uncertain whether Amos 8 was directed at my personal spiritual condition or connected to the individuals in my dream. But I choose to examine myself through that lens. By God’s grace and with the help of the Holy Spirit, I will make whatever changes are necessary.

I encourage you, dear reader, to pause and assess where you are in your walk with God. Ask Him to realign your heart with His will—so that together, we may hunger for His truth, rather than experience spiritual famine.

Shalom 🙏🏼

Iamsosasmama ❤️

The Silent Struggle: Recognizing Abuse in Men

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As I sit in front of my computer, wondering what to write for today’s blog, I find myself reflecting on past encounters. One, in particular, feels timely—especially with May being Mental Health Awareness Month.

By nature, I have an approachable personality, so people often come to me with their struggles. Once they learn about my profession, some even try to get a little “free therapy” (LoL). Jokes aside, I genuinely appreciate when others feel safe enough to confide in me. And the experience I’m about to share was no exception—but it weighed on me more than I expected.

Society often focuses on abuse from a woman’s perspective, rarely acknowledging that men, too, can be trapped in abusive relationships—sometimes for years. I recall how an individual opened up to me some time ago about the silent suffering they’ve endured, and I couldn’t help but feel deep compassion for them.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s talk about what abuse looks like in men, why they often don’t seek help, and how you can support them.

Recognizing Abuse in Men

Here are key signs that may indicate a man is experiencing abuse:

Behavioral Changes

  • Fearfulness or anxiety around his partner
  • Constantly checking in with his spouse or seeking approval
  • Withdrawal from social activities and conversations about his relationship
  • Declining self-esteem, even if he was once confident
  • Signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts

Physical Signs

  • Unexplained or recurring injuries
  • Wearing clothing that conceals bruises or scars (e.g., long sleeves in warm weather)
  • Neglecting personal hygiene or appearing unkempt

Emotional & Psychological Signs

  • Frequent belittling or humiliation by his spouse, sometimes in public
  • Doubting his own reality or decisions due to gaslighting
  • Feeling trapped or fearing loss of access to children
  • Receiving excessive, controlling calls or messages from his spouse

Work & Social Patterns

  • Unexpected absences from work or social events
  • Declining job performance due to stress or distraction
  • Hesitation to discuss home life or quickly shifting the topic

Why Men Often Don’t Speak Out

Many men hesitate to seek help because of societal expectations that discourage vulnerability. Fear of being labeled weak or dismissed prevents them from acknowledging their suffering.

How You Can Help

  • Pay attention to subtle signs.
  • Offer support without judgment or making them feel “less.”
  • Encourage professional help when appropriate.

Abuse can take many forms, and its impact on mental health is profound. Recognizing and supporting men in these situations is just as vital as advocating for women. Let’s bring awareness to all survivors of abuse—because healing begins when voices are heard.

Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 if you or anyone you know needs help.

Reference:

Is a man you know a victim? Spotting the Signs

Shalom 🙏🏼

Iamsosasmama ❤️