If you are unaware of what the ten toes challenge is, it basically dares people to come up with a freestyle over the "Ten Toes Down" instrumental. Which seems pretty simple, but it is amazing how deep people are willing to get in just a few minutes of spit fire verses. The vulnerability that these people are having with complete strangers through a virtual screen is truly inspiring. As I spent hours over this winter break glued to the heartbreak through every video I could not help but feel a connection with each person. I have this overwhelming desire to tell them they are so very loved and I am always willing to give them a hug when they are down.
Each story touched on the cracks in today's society like neglect, depression, loneliness, abuse, poor decisions, the suicide of a friend, suicide attempts,early pregnancies, fatherless, motherless, boldness not mentioned in person, homeless, brokenness, drug addiction, alcoholism, but most importantly, ALL SEARCHING FOR SO MUCH MORE.
I want these people who may have struggled or are still struggling to know they are tremendously more than what the devil is trying to make them think. Filling of the heart won't be found through the love of a man since growing up without a father has left a longingness for that acceptance. Happiness won't be found at that bottom of a bottle or every lit night doing things you'll regret. The amount food you put on the table or the money in your bank account does not define your self-worth. Don't let a mistake you may have made when you were young hold you back from feeling worthy enough to be successful. The struggles with depression or a nonexistent family tree will not bring up red flags on a resume. When you're drowning and feeling like there isn't another good day to come just know you were made for a purpose so keep on pushing through. GOOD DAYS ARE IN THE HORIZON.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
2 Corinthians 5:17
" No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. "
1 Corinthians 10:13
These verses are living proof that every struggle that each person went through was for a reason to make them stronger and someday be an influence in someone else's life. Sometimes the answers are usually not there when we are going through a horrible time, but eventually, God put's something in our life or someone so we are able to appreciate that blessing. For example, if you never had a horrible ex you wouldn't be as grateful for the next boyfriend who treats you a million times better. Walking down the street there is a high possibility of running into someone who seems to be just out of luck and you'll be able to bless them because you have been there before. Just like when someone in your life is struggling with something you have already gone through, you'll be that shoulder for them to cry on when they feel like no one understands.
People are stronger than what they can ever imagine because their past has equipped them with the tools to overcome any challenge. When your strength is in the Lord, you are never truly alone in times of weakness. He is the one holding up your battle sword in every deadly scene.
So take a few minutes if you haven't already and be inspired by these videos, word of caution, though! some are a little vulgar for my taste, but you can mostly overlook the cussing and see the true meaning behind the heart of their words. Here is the link to my favorite challenge video, even though they are all fantastic:
http://urbanareas.net/info/shawni-ladawn-ten-toes-...
Smile as much as you can and never take any day for granted, because just like the name of the song, you're lucky to have ten toes allowing the human body to stand firmly. Every obstacle has turned you into the beautiful creation you have become, so do not question it because yet again God is in control!
