Hey Reader,

There are certain non-negotiables in my life. You know, the things I don’t waver on because the alternative doesn't cut it.

1️⃣ Jesus first. No matter what. My life, my relationships, and decisions I make are built on seeking Him and trusting His gentle leading. It hasn’t always been this way for me, but I have come to realize it’s the only way.

My identity and security rest in Him.

2️⃣ Obedience over fear. Fear doesn’t get to make decisions for me—God does. Even if it means a constant loop of turning that fear over to the Lord, I choose to walk in faith.

No weapon formed against me will prosper.

And finally, when it comes to Devoted Dreamers—the podcast and my coaching business—the biggest non-negotiable is this:

3️⃣ A safe haven—but not a hiding place. I’m committed to creating encouraging and faith-focused content plus face-to-face encounters where women feel seen and known and they can share the real-life struggles they face.

For me, that safe haven without hiding is so important because of you, Reader.

Because, even as believers, there is a darkness threatening to take us down. It can’t take us out, but it can keep us in hiding. Shame, reputation management, imposter syndrome, fear, self-doubt—these are threats to our God-shaped dreams and we need to tackle them head on. We need to expose them to the light for the healing only Christ can give.

Hidden dreams give the enemy a foothold.

Hidden dreams make us feel like we can’t measure up.

Hidden dreams are like no dreams at all.

Just ask my podcast guest, Kirsten D Samuel who fought the temptation to keep the pain of marriage betrayal quiet. Had she given in to worry about what other people might think of her or her husband she never would have grown the platform she has today to minister to women and their marriages, fighting for healing, reconciliation and hope for the future.

God-given inspiration isn’t meant to stay hidden.

Our lived-out dreams reflect God’s glory and His redemptive purposes to a lost and broken world.

Someone out there is waiting for your dream to come to life. It’s time to step out of hiding and to step forward in faith.

When you’re ready to do that, I’m here.

Let me know if you need anything—or just want to share it out loud and finally bring your dream out of hiding. I’m all ears and cannot wait to see how God works in your life and your dream. Hit me up. I’ll be right here.

With you,
~ Merritt

P.S. I bet you have some of your own non-negotiables. Hit “reply” and share away. I’d love to hear them!

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