This past Saturday was Monica Brown's 35th birthday. The singer who's enjoyed a career spanning 24 years, impressive by any standards, is getting ready to launch her 8th album, Code Red. Monica had some words of wisdom to share on her Instagram account which I want to share with you:

Each time the candles burn there's been yet another lesson learned.. This year was the year of clarity... The year of understanding & accepting those things that are within my control & letting go of those things that aren't ...No longer do I lean on my own understanding but when I say I trust him (God) I trust him fully!! Anyone & Anything he removes he replaces with not a want but a need❤️35... Special numbers because I live for the 3 beautiful beings I birthed biologically. Yet in total 5 that I love with every inch of my being... Thank You Rocko, Romelo, Laiyah, Malik & Bam for my making me better and giving me reason to strive... Everyday I'm optimistic, I'm aware, I'm learning & I'm dedicated to showing you that anything is possible if you believe & work hard...This is Yet another milestone doing what I love with who I love❤️nothing more to ask for!! To the young woman that's given up on themselves understand that your purpose awaits you & each test will be a part of your amazing testimony.. Hang in there & know only what you believe is possible... No one will love you if you don't love u... Speaking of love, thank you to My Mr.. Every surprise and moment #SimplyAmazing #35 #Scorpio #October24 #ThankYouLordForAnotherYear❤️❤️❤️❤️

A photo posted by Monica Brown (@monicabrown) on Oct 24, 2015 at 12:34am PDT

Her message to young women is what I want to draw your attention you. There are many of you out here still trying to make it "big", there's even those just trying to make it period. I'm 33, and I haven't scratched the surface of what God has in store. The same holds true for you. The bible says:

“However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him.”

— 1 Cor 2:9

View image | gettyimages.com

If you claim this for yourself (believe it), and put work behind it, it WILL be your truth. Monica says that your purpose awaits you. It does! I don't care if you're 24 or 44, all you have to do is start and keep going. Never quit. Believe that you are actually worth the blessings that you want, and only share with those who you know want the same for you. I know for some of you, finding that support may not be in your immediate family or friend circle, which is why sometimes online communities become your support system.

Of the new album Monica explained, in the video below, that the title refers to the state of which r&b music is in. Our generation, and those older grew up to this genre and have many major life moments linked to those songs, whereas the younger generation is not as in touch with it. She therefore aims to connect with the younger generation through love.

In support of the album release, Monica also announced the upcoming "Code Red Experience" tour. The tour, which kicks off November 12th in Las Vegas, will run until mid-December which is when the album is scheduled to be released.

Join us for The Code RED Experience.... @iamricolove & I live and breathe for the depth, honesty & passion that embodies real music.. Each night we will take you on a musical journey❤️

A photo posted by Monica Brown (@monicabrown) on Oct 19, 2015 at 10:20am PDT

The theme for today is definitely love. Love for yourself and your life, love for your passion & purpose enough to actually pursue it, and love music, the essence of r&b. This is what God has to say about love: "It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1 Cor 13:7-8)

Be blessed!