This week on Real Talk with Rachael I'm talking to the Executive Pastor of Adult Ministries at Gateway Church, Bridgette Morris. She and her husband, James, have been married for 12 years. They have three beautiful kids, two boys, and a girl, who keep them on their toes but are always good for a snuggle. She loves the outdoors and can often be found with her hands in the dirt, tending her garden, or working on a project. Bridgette has been part of Gateway Church since 2008, serving in various ministries and creative areas, including Gateway Worship as a vocalist and worship pastor, and Gateway Performing Arts. She loves living out her passion to see women fully equipped to walk out the calling God has placed on their lives.

Key Points from Our Conversation:

• We have to let go of the perception that everyone else is killing it. No one is "doing it all".
• You can do everything, but not at the same time. Be mindful, purposeful, and intentional with what you're doing.
• We have a lot of responsibilities, authority, and opportunities to do a lot of things, but we need to realize that for one thing to thrive, another thing will suffer.
• It's time to let go of perfectionism. Some things won’t get 100% of you. It might be time to consider what you can outsource. There will be other seasons where you can pick things back up, but if it’s not the priority now, let it go.
• Bridgette is living her mission to inspire women to live a Christian life, encourage those who are trudging through, and equip them so they can take action through Gateway Women.
• Inspiration is the motivation to get started. Encouragement is for when you’re in the middle of it. It’s easy to get inspired, it’s hard to keep pushing through.
• Be aware of who's around you and listen to the Holy Spirit. Look for people in need of encouragement. Women are gifted at discernment, so lead with compassion and things will fall into place.
• It’s hard to encourage someone you’re comparing yourself to. Flip the script. Cheer her on and pray for her.
• Equipping is the practical how-tos. Determine what's on your plate and what you can take off of it – what has the Lord put on it and what did you add? Also, consider what it would look like to apply the practical application of your strengths.
• Being aware of your season, strengths, and weaknesses is the key to being effective in your life. Once you know those things, you can determine the resources you need.
• Give yourself a break. We all want to be our best. God knows our heart, so on the days when you feel like you're failing, give yourself a break. He's giving you more grace than you’re accepting. Allow yourself to receive it.

Let's Get Real Practical:

What balls are you currently juggling? List them all. It's helpful to see them. What ball/balls is God saying it's okay to drop? Mark them off the list. Which balls have dropped that shattered? God is in the business of cleaning up our mess. 

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