Not Everyone Deserves All of You

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Stop Overgiving. Start Stewarding.

Let’s talk about something we’ve all been guilty of—investing covenant-level energy into casual connections.

We mean well. We show up, give our time, pour out our insight, and offer support on demand. And then… we wonder why we’re emotionally drained, spiritually scattered, and quietly frustrated.

Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way: When you confuse casual with covenant, you set yourself up for burnout.

Covenant relationships are mutual, anchored in shared values, trust, and intentionality. They challenge you and cover you. They pull you back to purpose, not just proximity.

Casual relationships? They’re not bad. They’re just… different. They’re seasonal, light, and often built on shared interests or environment. But they were never meant to carry the weight of your deepest energy or emotional capacity.

You were never called to be everything for everyone.
You were called to be wise with what you carry.
And wisdom looks like knowing who gets what kind of access.

That’s not cold—it’s stewardship.

Take Inventory

Who are your life-giving covenant people? Who are you trying to “fix” or over-invest in out of guilt, habit, or obligation?

Now ask: What would it look like to adjust access without withdrawing affection?

Protect your peace. Reclaim your margin. Reserve covenant for those who’ve shown covenant commitment.

What’s Been Anchoring Me Lately?

If you’re like me, music is often how God gets your attention. Here are two songs I’ve had on repeat lately that speak to rest, reassurance, and recommitment:

🎧 Still Here (Live) – Faith Worship Arts
In a moment when my spirit needed a reset, Faith Worship Arts’ latest song “Still Here” arrived as a divine appointment. This awe-inspired track is from their 2025 album “Fill This House,” recorded live at Faith Assembly of God in Orlando.

🎧 Sure – Freddy Washington Jr.
There are songs you listen to once… and then there are songs that listen to you. That’s how I felt the first time I heard “Sure” by Freddy Washington Jr. It wasn’t just good — it was grounding. The kind of track that settles into your spirit like a whispered prayer you didn’t realize you’d been praying. As soon as it ended, I hit replay. And then I hit replay again.

If you are reading this far…

I hope this message finds you well. I’m sharing from my heart in hopes that you will be inspired to unearth and live out your God-given purpose. Hopefully, something I said resonated. I would love to hear from you if so. Please feel free to reach out to me on social media. FYI: I’m mostly active on Instagram these days. If you were forwarded this message, you can subscribe here to receive thoughts like this directly in your inbox. And don’t forget to check out the latest episode of my podcast, ConvoRoom with Mark Allen Patterson.

See you next week,