In this powerful episode, Tamara sits down with the dynamic and inspirational Pastor Kim, also known as Real Talk Kim, to explore her incredible journey of faith and resilience. Pastor Kim opens up about hitting rock bottom, losing everything, and the trials she faced on her path to starting over. She shares how she leaned into God’s calling, found purpose in her pain, and built a thriving ministry that touches lives around the world. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to the power of perseverance, trust in God, and the beauty of redemption. Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or seeking encouragement to step into your purpose, this episode is sure to inspire and uplift!

Watch Kim’s full interview on YouTube!

Surrender—it’s a word that can feel heavy, even unsettling at times. In a world that glorifies control, self-sufficiency, over-consumption, and hustle, the idea of surrendering can feel like weakness. But what if surrender is actually the key to unlocking your greatest strength?

When I sat down with Real Talk Kim, I was struck by her powerful testimony of transformation. At the heart of it all was surrender—letting go of shame, fear, expectations, and even control to allow God to work in ways beyond our imagination.

So, how do we actually surrender? What does it look like in action? Let’s break it down.

Release the Weight of Shame

Shame is a burden that holds you back, keeping you tied to past mistakes and whispering that you’re unworthy of redemption. But God sees beyond your failures—He sees your purpose.

Pastor Kim shared that she learned the very thing you’re most ashamed of is often where God will use you the most. So let’s think about it like this. Your past is not a prison—it’s preparation.

How to Surrender Shame:

• Identify negative self-talk and replace it with affirmations of truth about who you are in Christ.
• Recognize that your past does not define you—your growth does.
• Trust that if God has forgiven you, you can forgive yourself too.

Stop carrying what God has already wiped clean from your slate. Surrender your shame and step into the freedom He has for you.

Pay Attention and Attend to Your Environment

Look around—who and what is influencing you? Are you surrounded by chaos, negativity, or distractions? The company you keep and the spaces you occupy either push you toward purpose or pull you into stagnation.

If you know that partying, unhealthy habits, or toxic friendships are keeping you stuck, it’s time to ask yourself: Are these relationships and spaces fueling my spirit or draining it?

How to Align Your Environment with Your Purpose:

• Audit your surroundings—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
• Find spaces that align with who you are becoming. Attend faith-based events, networking groups, a hobby, or even online communities that uplift you. 
• Make room for peace. Sometimes surrender means decluttering your environment and your mind in preparation for blessings to flow into your life.

If something in your life isn’t serving you, it’s time for a reset. Attend to what needs to change.

Surround Yourself with Inspiration

The people in your circle directly impact your growth. If you surround yourself with dreamers, doers, and faith-filled individuals, you’ll naturally elevate. But if you remain in the company of doubters, complainers, and those who lack vision, your own faith may shrink.

How to Cultivate an Inspiring Circle:

• Seek out mentors who have walked the path you aspire to take.
• Engage with content that challenges you—podcasts, books, sermons, and social media accounts that lift your spirit.
• Prioritize relationships that challenge you to grow rather than ones that keep you comfortable.

Growth isn’t always comfortable, but it’s necessary. Choose your circle wisely.

When You Fall, Get Back Up

Surrender doesn’t mean perfection. You will stumble. You will struggle. But with every fall comes an opportunity to get back up and stand sturdier. God’s grace is sufficient for every mistake, every misstep, and every moment of doubt.

Setbacks will come, but don’t let guilt keep you down—instead, see your setback as a setup for something greater coming in the future and learn from the experience, don’t just sit in the discouragement of it. 

How to Keep Moving Forward:

• Shift your perspective—failure is not final.
• Pray through the process. Trust that even in the fall, God is guiding your steps.
• Stay committed to the journey. The only way you lose is if you quit.

The comeback is always better. Keep pushing forward.

Fill Your Cup to Prepare for the Blessing

We ask God for big blessings—but are we making space for them? If you’re constantly drained, distracted, or depleted, how will you have the energy to step into the blessings God has for you?

How to Prepare for What’s Coming:

• Prioritize spiritual nourishment—prayer, worship, and scripture should be your foundation.
• Take care of yourself mentally and physically. Rest, reflect, and restore so you’re ready when the opportunity arises.
• Say YES to growth moments. Sometimes, God’s blessings come in the form of stretching and discomfort.

A good steward of little will be given much. Are you creating space for God’s next move in your life?

Take It One Day at a Time

Surrender is a daily choice. Every morning, you must decide: Will I trust God or try to control everything myself?

When you surrender, you step into peace. You no longer have to force, fix, or have all the answers. You simply trust that God is already working things out for your good.

How to Practice Daily Surrender:

• Start your day in prayer. Release your worries before they consume you.
• Let go of what you can’t control. Trust that God is handling the unseen.
• Find joy in today. Tomorrow has its own battles—focus on what’s in front of you.

Faith is about trusting God even when you don’t see the full picture. Take it one day at a time.

Remember, surrendering isn’t about giving up—it’s about giving in to something greater. It’s about letting go of what no longer serves you so that you can receive what God has for you.

Real Talk Kim’s story proves that when you surrender, you don’t lose—you GAIN. You gain peace. You gain clarity. You gain access to the life God always intended for you.

What do you need to surrender today? Drop a comment below or share this with someone who needs this message. Let’s walk this journey of surrender together.