Year-End Reflections
As I close out each year, I find myself reflecting on all that has transpired over the past 365 days: the good, the bad, the happy, the sad…and the moments that don’t really fit into any one category. Every single moment served a purpose.
Some years have been better than others. I’ve had my fair share of both the good and bad. But the one thing God has shown me through them all is that He is always there. In every high and low, He’s with me. He’s holding my hand and guiding my way. Never once has He left me or ignored my cries. I may not always see His hand at work, but nevertheless, He’s always there, sometimes quietly moving behind the scenes.
And He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes [before God] on behalf of God’s people in accordance with God’s will. And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose. - Romans 8:27-28 AMP
JOURNAL: What is something good that happened to you this year? What is something you would consider to be bad? Where has God shown up where you least expected?
This past year has been a trying one for our family, but it’s also been full of unexpected blessings and joy. Some days, the range of my emotions was far and wide; but no matter what each day would bring, I saw Jesus. It may have been in the form of an unexpected smile from the clerk at the store, a call or text from a far-away friend, or help from a total stranger. It may have been something even bigger. No matter how large or small the blessing, it reminded me that He is near.
If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath. Disciples so often get into trouble; still, God is there every time. - Proverbs 18-19 MSG
ACTIVATION: As you go throughout your day, look for God in the midst of your troubles and praise Him in the good. Trust that He will see you through anything you may face. Lean into His promises and rest in Him.
Some years have been better than others. I’ve had my fair share of both the good and bad. But the one thing God has shown me through them all is that He is always there. In every high and low, He’s with me. He’s holding my hand and guiding my way. Never once has He left me or ignored my cries. I may not always see His hand at work, but nevertheless, He’s always there, sometimes quietly moving behind the scenes.
And He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes [before God] on behalf of God’s people in accordance with God’s will. And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose. - Romans 8:27-28 AMP
JOURNAL: What is something good that happened to you this year? What is something you would consider to be bad? Where has God shown up where you least expected?
This past year has been a trying one for our family, but it’s also been full of unexpected blessings and joy. Some days, the range of my emotions was far and wide; but no matter what each day would bring, I saw Jesus. It may have been in the form of an unexpected smile from the clerk at the store, a call or text from a far-away friend, or help from a total stranger. It may have been something even bigger. No matter how large or small the blessing, it reminded me that He is near.
If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath. Disciples so often get into trouble; still, God is there every time. - Proverbs 18-19 MSG
ACTIVATION: As you go throughout your day, look for God in the midst of your troubles and praise Him in the good. Trust that He will see you through anything you may face. Lean into His promises and rest in Him.
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