Your Daily Cup of Inspiration!

Your Purpose Matters Most

I read a Robert Byrne quote yesterday that really grabbed my attention. It said, "The purpose of life, is a life of purpose." Isn't it good to know that even in such a vast universe, God has a specific assignment for your life? I genuinely believe that your purpose matters most, but lately, I've been witnessing a disturbing trend. I have been bombarded with emails and offers from Christians promoting tools to help others "become a superstar" and get wealthy in _____ steps. You fill in the blank. I have even come across a sales pitch from a single woman trying to offer advice to married couples. Then, a few days ago, a Christian marketer said, "You're only as good as Google says you are," implying that search engine ranking somehow determines the social ranking of an individual. Instantly, I... Read more →

Your Purpose Matters Most

There's a powerful quote that says, "The purpose of life, is a life of purpose." Truly, your purpose is what matters most. Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Sweet and Sour

I opened the refrigerator yesterday and discovered that my husband had bought some red grapes during his quick grocery store run. I washed off one and sunk my teeth into it. "Mmmm," I said with my eyes closed. It was sweet like candy. So I ate another and another... until I'd had my fill. Typically, Kenya is partial to green grapes, which are often more sour. For some reason, he prefers that tart flavor, but not me. I love "Red Delicious" apples. They're sweet. He enjoys the green "Granny Smith" kind. Yuck. Even though one brand is sweet and the other is sour, they're both nutritious. And if I want to be healthy, I have to learn to eat the sour fruit when the sweet-tasting kind isn't available. Similarly, in life, we must learn how to take the sweet along... Read more →

Sweet and Sour

In life, we must learn how to take the sweet along with the sour, because everyday isn't going to be Sunday. But one thing I know is, God will carry you through every test and trial. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Do It for the Lord

Just the other day, I was working on a tedious ministry-related project. During the course of trying to get it done, I just felt myself getting worn out and losing interest in it. You know how that can be. My mind began wandering and I really wanted to just quit. Then, the Holy Spirit placed the scripture found in Colossians 3:23 in my heart. It says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." (NIV) Although the work didn't get any easier, immediately, my mind and attitude transformed. I realized that, by carrying out the task, even though every part of me wanted to give up, I would be bringing glory to God. So today, I just want to pass this valuable lesson along, since it helped me so much.... Read more →

Do It for the Lord

Just the other day, I was working on a tedious ministry-related project. During the course of trying to get it done, I just felt myself getting worn out and losing interest in it. Then, the Lord laid a scripture on my heart that really re-focused me... Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

When you Get Tired

Last evening, I felt sleep come down on me hard. I was up late the night before and never shook off that sleepiness. "I'm so tired," I yawned and told my husband. Next thing I knew, I was waking up from about a three minute nap my body involuntarily took. The "Sandman" accosted me and before I even realized it, I had dropped off to sleep. When you get tired, (I'm talking about good and tired), your body will just shut down on you. You know those times when "the TV ends up watching you" because you couldn't stay awake? It's hard to fight sleep when you physically get worn down. The body needs to repair and replenish, and sleep is the way it achieves this. When it comes to our walk with God, however, we don't handle "tiredness" the... Read more →

When you Get Tired

If it wasn't for the Lord on our side, we would completely break down and give up. We would be powerless to combat those overwhelming feelings that make us want to wave the white flag. Aren't you thankful that when you get tired, God is there? Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week #46

As I was preparing to post requests today, I felt led to just allow the individuals seeking prayer to "speak for themselves." So, I'm posting the prayer requests "in their own words," with only minor edits for grammar, continuity, and length. We know that God hears every cry, so on this Thoughtful Thursdays, please join me in praying for the following individuals: 1.) A "discouraged encourager" named Nannette who feels her faith failing writes: "For the past two and half years I've experienced nothing but heartache, stress, confusion, frustration and depression. I have the strength to encourage others but when I need it, no one is there and I can't even muster up the strength to get myself right or encourage myself. I'm tired of trying. I'm tired of everyone around me receiving happiness and I'm on the outside questioning... Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week #46

On this "Thoughtful Thursday ," please read over prayer requests that women have submitted to the Daily Cup of Inspiration. Then, join me in praying that God would meet their needs. Thanks in advance for your prayers. Read the requests at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Ignore your Feelings

"Ooh Mom, can we play Uno?" asked my oldest son Kedar yesterday with his eyes stretched wide. His little brother Kaleb stood right alongside him waiting for the answer. So, I consented and broke out the Uno cards for the boys to the sound of excited squeals. You would have thought I had purchased small vanilla cones with sprinkles from the ice cream man. They were that stoked about their card game. Well, after they got their little hands on the tall colorful deck, initially, the two brothers sat quietly playing their game on the floor in my bedroom. I smiled; they were so peaceful. But then, somewhere around halfway through the first game, they both simultaneously lost interest. And sure enough, a few moments later, they abandoned the Uno game they had eagerly anticipated and began playing with their... Read more →

Ignore your Feelings

When your feelings contradict your goals, simply ignore them and do what you know is right. Do what God called you to do. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Thank Him for Sustaining You!

Yesterday, my husband found a photograph of me from about 10 years ago. Immediately, all the memories from the day that image was taken, came rushing back to the forefront of my mind. I had my oldest daughter Kyla with me; she was the only child back then and we were posing in front of our red Ford Contour. Even though the body of the vehicle looked nice enough, I remember how loud that thing was every time I cranked it up. The engine light never went off and we needed to get our brakes fixed. But, as a young family without a whole lot of money to spare, we couldn't afford the high cost of the repairs. So anyway, on the day that photo was snapped, I had called my husband on the phone laughing, though I was honestly... Read more →

Thank Him for Sustaining You!

I've learned that God doesn't always immediately make things "new" in our lives; yet, He always sustains us through our tough seasons. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Guest Post: Laquinte Brinson

As you know, I always write the blog posts for The Daily Cup, but today, I want you to read the article that Laquinte Brinson wrote in her inspirational column for EEW Online Magazine. I believe it will be a blessing to you. Now, if you typically read the blog posts on your handheld like a Blackberry device, you'll have to wait until you get to a desktop in order for the article on EEWMagazine.com to display properly for you. I hope you'll enjoy it! http://www.eewmagazine.com/inspiration.html Dianna Read more →

Guest Post: Laquinte Brinson

As you know, I always write the blog posts for The Daily Cup, but today, I want you to read the article that Laquinte Brinson wrote in her inspirational column for EEW Online Magazine. I believe it will be a blessing to you. Now, if you typically read the blog posts on your handheld like a Blackberry device, you'll have to wait until you get to a desktop in order for the article on EEWMagazine.com to display properly for you. I hope you'll enjoy it! http://www.eewmagazine.com/inspiration.html Dianna Read more →

Don't Put It Off

My schedule was thrown off all day yesterday. Somehow, I started out on the wrong foot. I fed the kids in the morning and forgot to eat. When lunchtime rolled around, I made their little sandwiches and snacks, got them situated, and stuffed a few pretzels in my mouth in between finishing up some projects. I couldn't figure out why I had the "hungry shakes" by late afternoon. Does that ever happen to you when you're starving? Anyway, I ate a really late lunch. Then, last evening, when time came to eat dinner, I was already full because I had eaten lunch so late. I ended up sitting around the table with the family watching my husband and the kids eat, laugh and chat. At least I was able to join in on the laughter, silliness and fun conversation, but... Read more →

Don't Put It Off

There are seasons when God tugs at us to move in a particular direction and pursue a specific course of action. And there's a reason why He commissions us to operate within a certain timetable. It's all a part of a larger plan that moves in stages and phases. Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 45

For this week's Thoughtful Thursdays, I'm going to do something a bit unconventional. Each week, I receive a flood of prayer requests from those that don't wish to have their requests posted. Many of them are going through great distress and deeply personal struggles within themselves, their families, careers, ministries, and other areas. When I read over these requests, I feel such a burden in my heart for the individuals who are crying out and going through hard trials. That's why I want everyone reading this blog to do something that might seem a bit unconventional today. Will you help me cover them by praying a simple prayer asking God to touch the lives of everyone that has submitted an anonymous, confidential request. You can't even imagine what some folks are facing! Thankfully, even though their names are not actually... Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 45

I feel such a strong burden in my heart for the individuals who are crying out and going through hard trials. Please join me in praying for them at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

You are a Cycle Breaker

Yesterday, my youngest daughter, Kaiah, was lying across the bed reading a book. Then, as a little time passed, she was happily reciting one of those popular childhood rhymes to herself. Although I can't remember exactly which one it was, it put me in the mind of the "Miss Mary Mack" rhyme. Remember that one? "She asked her mother, mother, mother, for fifteen cents, cents, cents, to see the elephants, elephants, elephants..." Well, when I overheard her, I was pretty intrigued, because it immediately carried me back to my younger days at home as a kid. I thought to myself, "Wow, things really do get passed down from generation to generation." In this case, what was "passed down" was completely innocent and harmless. But, there are some other generational patterns and behaviors that can be detrimental to us. Those, by... Read more →

You are a Cycle Breaker

There are some generational ideals, patterns and behaviors that can be detrimental to us along our path toward destiny. These cycles are hindrances, but you, by God's power, are a cycle breaker! Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

All You Need...

I had a photo shoot this week-end. Sheer torture. It's all a part of me gearing up for the release of my first single from the upcoming album. Well, if you know me, you know I strongly dislike taking pictures! For some reason, I have the hardest time posing for the camera and relaxing. In the middle of striking what should have been some serious poses on Saturday, numerous times, I lost my composure and just cracked up laughing. There were a few moments when the photographer even got tickled from watching me. It was all so over the top for me that I just couldn't take myself seriously. Underneath that wig, full lashes, make up, and some pretty "interesting" (code word for crazy-looking) outfits, was just plain old Dianna wanting to get out of all that extra stuff and... Read more →

All You Need...

Today, I encourage you to confidently step into your destiny knowing that right now, as long as the Greater One is dwelling on the inside, all you need is already inside. Read the full blog post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Let Him Hold You

My mom gives the absolute best hugs! I posted a picture of her here (even though it's a litttle fuzzy), so you can see that bright smile she always has waiting for me every single time I see her. It doesn't matter what time of day or night it is, she's always sweet, consistent, and warm. Well, the other day, I had so much running to do and lots of things piling up on my plate. I was so tired... not just physically, but mentally also. Ever had one of those times when your mind was just working overtime and you needed a mental break? That was me. In the middle of running errands, I decided to make a quick stop by my mom's house. When I saw her, I told her, "Mom, I just need a hug." With no... Read more →

Let Him Hold You

My mother, whom I love dearly, gives the warmest embraces. But still, nobody can hold me like Jesus can. And if you find that you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by life, all you need to do is let Him hold you and He'll make everything alright. Read more at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

When You Overcome...

Yesterday, as I was on my way out of Walmart, a little boy that appeared to be around 9 years old, walked toward me holding a cardboard box full of candy bars. "Excuse me Ms." he said shyly and hesitantly, "Would you like to buy a candy bar?" The people up ahead of me had already told the young seller no. But, for me, shooing him away was unthinkable. You see, when I was younger, as a pastor's daughter, I would often have to sell candy and numerous other things, to raise money for the church. Most times, I hated it. Some people were so mean. I vividly recall how nerve-wracking it was trying to get up the courage to solicit patronage. I would be extremely happy when someone purchased something from me. On the other hand, it was quite... Read more →

When You Overcome...

I believe God allows us to go through things, not only for our growth and development, but also, so we can empathize with others and impart the wisdom we've gained from our personal experience. Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 44

Each night, in the Hobbs household, we all say grace together before we eat. Every once in a while, I'll catch my youngest son, Kaleb, watching me, his dad, or his other siblings. He'll compare his "prayer posture" to others and make sure he's clasping his hands together just right. It's so cute. Just as all the children have, little Kaleb is learning about prayer by watching the rest of us pray in the home and I love that. But, prayer time isn't just reserved for mealtime or bedtime. Jesus said, we ought always pray (Luke 18:1). Today, we're continuing to pray for those on our Thoughtful Thursdays list who have poured out their hearts and petitions, believing God to do the work. Please join me in interceding for the following people: 1. A woman who wishes to remain anonymous,... Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 44

Jesus said, we ought always pray (Luke 18:1). And loyal Daily Cup of Inspiration readers know that Thursdays is our special time to pray for others who submit prayer requests. Please join me in reading the requests and praying at www.diannahobbs.com. Thanks in advance! Read more →

Drop the Excuses

Are all four-year-olds as dramatic as mine? Likely, mothers of young ones will each emphatically say yes and share their own funny stories. Well, lately, little Kaleb has adopted a new habit to add to all the other entertaining and quirky things he routinely does. Initially, he'll be playing, jumping, and laughing with his sisters and brother; but whenever time comes to pick up his toys or do anything he deems unpleasant, Kaleb suddenly becomes "lame" and incapacitated. "I can't walk," he'll say, with a look of agony on his face, while whimpering and developing a limp out of the blue. Somehow, it never seems to occur to Kaleb that, while he's walking, albeit with an extremely poorly portrayed limp, he's doing the very thing he's claiming he cannot do. The other day, when I sent him to collect his... Read more →

Drop the Excuses

If God has given you the vision and the green light to step out. When you've got that "divine go ahead," don't sit on your gift and calling. Drop the excuses and get moving. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Pick Up Where You Left Off

My husband Kenya used to run cross country back in High School, where he was one of the fastest. When we began dating 15 years ago, in 1995, I noticed that his mother had collected all--and I do mean all--his trophies, medals and other awards and designated a special place in the house for them. It was like a "shrine" to Kenya, celebrating his notable achievements in track and field. She kept them all until she recently passed away. Well, after he graduated, Kenya didn't pursue running any further... just an occasional sprint here and there. Then, once we were married and the kids came along, our schedules got busier, and he pretty much quit that activity altogether. But, the other day, he said he wanted to start up again and recondition his body. He meant it too, because that... Read more →

Pick Up Where You Left Off

The other day, my husband did something that inspired this blog post and reminded me that, whether it's been days, weeks, months, or years since you've revisited that thing you believe God has chosen you to do; it's never too late to start fresh. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Do What He Said

Happy Monday family! I hope you all had a really great week-end and that you're doing well today. My week-end was a pretty eventful one. I spent time in the studio working on some music for my upcoming project. Thanks to all my Facebook friends that prayed for me; I had a rough time trying to sing initially, since I'm just getting over a pretty nasty cold. Some of you reading the Daily Cup may not know that I'm also a singer. I don't talk about it very much, because it's that "other side" of Dianna Hobbs I had all but abandoned for quite some time. I had grown content pursuing other avenues of ministering to God's people and quite honestly, I had gotten pretty comfortable with that. A little bit too comfortable. But the Lord is calling me to... Read more →

Do What He Said

Sometimes, God will call on us to do things that stretch us and snatch us right up out of our comfort zones. Still, we must obey Him and do what He said! Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

You're Not Working Alone

Yesterday, my daughters and I spent some time organizing their bedroom. Kaiah and Kyla, age 9 and 11 respectively, do a pretty good job with the upkeep of their room. But when it comes down to giving their little space that deep cleaning, that's where Momma comes in. I always tell them, "There's clean... and then, there's my kind of clean." I like things orderly. So, we organized everything, threw away what was no longer useful and even washed walls. I try to teach them how to do a good job tidying things up, so when they're older, they'll understand how to keep a clean house. Although I put the girls to work, I'm by no means a "taskmaster." I didn't leave them alone; we worked together. I know they're strong, able-bodied children; but I also know their limitations. So,... Read more →

You're Not Working Alone

The Lord molds, strengthens, matures, and builds us up through our life's circumstances. He allows us to get into situations that we have to "work our way out of," not to torture us, but to empower us to operate in knowledge and wisdom borne out of struggle. Read the rest at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 43

Recently, a distraught husband asked the Daily Cup family to join him in praying for his wife, Sandra, who had been struggling with infertility for eight years. His wife had slipped into depression over her inability to conceive and this put a strain on the relationship. I'll spare you all of the details and just tell you that God is so awesome! I am so, so excited to report that the two of them are expecting their first child; they just got the news last week and they're ecstatic! He wrote in his email: "We just keep looking at the sonogram pictures in amazement. This is GOD'S doing!" Wow...indeed, it is God's doing. Let's continue to remember this couple in prayer, that God would grant them a safe and healthy pregnancy. Today, please also join me in praying for the... Read more →

Thoughtful Thursdays: Week 43

Recently, a distraught husband asked the Daily Cup family to join him in praying for his wife, Sandra, who had been struggling with infertility for eight years. His wife had slipped into depression over her inability to conceive, but God... Read more at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

"Get a Grip on It"

Yesterday I got a knife jammed inside the garbage disposal in the kitchen sink. I tried and tried, but couldn't get it out. After yanking and tugging at it for what felt like forever, I was convinced it wasn't gonna dislodge. But then, I got a wrench and tightened it around the knife. With a firm grasp and a steady hand, I went back at it again. The wrench gripped that piece of silverware much more tightly than I was able to with my bare hand. So, I concentrated and took my time wriggling the stuck knife around. To my relief, out popped that silver butter knife just minutes after I got a grip on it with the wrench. All I needed was a little reinforcement and something stronger than me to get a handle on that thing. Ever been... Read more →

"Get a Grip on It"

Some stuff is too tough to try to fix on your own. And if you've ever been stuck in a real serious jam and couldn't break free, you already know that it takes God to help you get a grip on things... Read the full post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →

Relief will Come

Yesterday morning, I woke up at about 5AM with severe irritation in my right eye. It felt like an eyelash was in there, so I examined it more closely in the mirror. However, I couldn't see anything except redness and a few protruding veins resulting from the eye irritation. As time passed, the sensation that something was in my eye increased in its intensity; every time I tried to open it, look up, or look to my right, my eyelid would involuntarily blink rapidly and a fountain of tears would pour out. I didn't know what in the world was causing this. There was nothing visibly there! I put drops in my eye, but that only made my condition worse. Why was my eye leaking and hurting? Well, with one eye open and the sore one squeezed shut, I got... Read more →

Relief will Come

As I often say, delay does not mean denial. Just because there's a waiting period, doesn't mean that the desires of your heart will never be fulfilled. Read the rest of this blog post at www.diannahobbs.com Read more →