Here I Am: Shaped by Grace and Guided by Faith

Here I am, living in Annapolis, Maryland! If you read my first post, then you know a bit about my journey here. I mentioned that being in the right place just feels… right. It’s true—a unique grace and favor comes with being where you’re meant to be. I’ve been guilty of staying in places longer than I should. A wise friend once told me, “When the grace has left a place, it’s time to go.”

We often confuse love with loyalty, believing someone loves us simply because they’re loyal—or vice versa. But you can have one without the other. Both love and loyalty are essential for a lasting connection, but lacking either can be counterproductive. It’s up to us to examine our relationships. As Christians, we’re often taught loyalty to a fault. All I can say is, thank God for deliverance.

Before moving to Annapolis, I had an open vision where my bathroom was adorned with beautiful turquoise tiles. (In reality, it wasn’t) I asked, “Lord, what are You saying?” He led me to Isaiah 54, and the revelation came around verse 11. He was showing me that I’m in a season of restoration.

Since being here, I’ve experienced so much grace and favor. I’ve been invited into rooms with influential people—not by asking or paying, but by simply being in the right place at the right time. This was one of the things the Lord spoke to me when I crossed over into Maryland: You’re at the right place at the right time. Some things won’t shift until you are in position. That can be mentally or physically.

Remember when I said the Lord marks restoration with speed? Things have been moving so fast since I’ve been here, and I am in awe of His goodness. Looking back, I can honestly say that I’m not the woman I was even a few months ago. Each season of life demands something different from us, and if we allow it, these experiences prepare us for the next level, which requires a different version of ourselves. It all works together—the molding, the preparation, and the pruning. When the Lord restores, it’s in every area of your life—nothing is left undone. He’ll even restore your reputation to those who have a place in your destiny.

My children are included in this blessing as well. One of them is starting college next semester in January (prayer works), while the other two are enjoying the time to pursue things they want and need to do.

My youngest son was a Baltimore Ravens fan before we moved and had the opportunity to attend their football camp. It was quite the experience for him! Although he’s more of a science lover than an athlete, he was out there having fun. (Getting autographs and taking pics) One day while we were running errands, he asked, ‘Why do we have all of these appointments?’ I replied, ‘Because the Lord is catching you up—now hush!’ I started laughing, but he didn’t think it was funny!

As I sit here in retrospect, reflecting on everything that has led me to this moment, I’m filled with gratitude and awe for all that the Lord is doing in my life. Every opposition, every “setback,” every loss was shaping me. Even in moments when I felt I couldn’t go on, the Lord knew I could endure it. This doesn’t mean I’m tough or perfect by any means; it means He knew I would endure without letting it harden my heart. It means I am malleable.

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

— 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV)

On this journey, each day is a grace walk. As I continue to step into the promises the Lord has spoken over me, I will forever give Him all glory, honor, and praise. This is where I am.

More grace and blessings.

Kierra Sheard - It Keeps Happening

https://youtu.be/RO5RPuLqAcc?si=HQdgiaNQnT7dd-Rd