OVERCOMING REJECTION

"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Every morning, I take 10-15 mins to read my devotion.  This morning was amazing...God spoke to me. He encouraged me to share my story and with you I will do!  

My family and close friends know that I tried time after time to get into an MBA Program.  Despite my untiring efforts, I was left with numerous rejection letters, a broken spirit, and an empty checkbook.  To this day, I hate standardized test. In my opinion, that is no way to measure ones intellectual ability....but that's an just MY opinion.
After weeks of nearly severe depression, I picked myself up and began the job hunt.  I remember sitting in my room, crying and praying to God.  In that very moment, I fully surrendered to Him.  I asked that He show me the path that He wanted me to take....and wherever that may be, I promised to go.  My dad quickly reminded me to "be careful what you pray for because you just might get it". I knew my prayer could result in me traveling to third world counties, spreading the gospel...and I was okay with that.  Keep in mind, I was beyond ready to get out of my [then] current position.
One day after work I began surfing through jobs at Mississippi State.  My dream has always been to work at a University.  I came across an opportunity that caught my attention.  I quickly sent an email, made a few calls, and applied for the position.  A few weeks passed before I heard anything (of course I was dying inside) and then one day I received a phone call for an on campus interview.  To make a long story short, I conquered my fear and made that presentation my..........doormat.  I traveled back to Jackson with a feeling of contentment.  I knew that I had done my best, so whatever the outcome, I would have to accept it.  Within a week I received a phone call (while on my way to another interview  haha see how good God is).  I was extended the offer to serve as the Recruitment, Retention, and Program Specialist for the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion (new name) at Mississippi State University. WOW!!! Little ole me?? Working directly under the president of MSU?? My prayers were answered....but there is more.  Remember my letters of rejection? Well, I am now enrolled in graduate school.  In a few short years I will have my Master of Science in Counseling & Educational Psychology with an emphasis in Student Affairs.  Did I mention I pay ZERO dollars for my education? Since I am an employee of the University, my tuition is paid! THANK.YOU.GOD.

You see, my rejection was painful.  But God showed me that with patience and faith, anything is possible.  Some may not consider this a "testimony"...but it is for me. I know what God has done for me and I am forever grateful.

"Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.  Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it." 

Malachi 3:10

With LOVE,
NaToya Rae xo