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Yep. Another year has come and gone. It’s hard to believe that it’s the first day of 2019. As I look back on what 2018 had to offer, I’m thankful for God’s grace.
2018 was a tough year. I don’t know what your year held, but for me, spiritually, it was a tough road. I struggled with so much anxiety, fear, and worry. It was a battle of my mind and there were days when the enemy won for sure. There was a place I got to where looking to God was the ONLY answer. But, that’s exactly where He wanted me. At His feet.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”
In saying that 2018 was a challenging year, it also had REALLY great moments. One Sunday in particular comes to mind.
Sundays in our house are a day we always attend church. (It’s been that way since I was a child) But it just so happened that that particular Sunday, My hubby, kids and I were home. (That is NOT a usual occurrence for us) And through no coincidence, the live video from our church wasn’t working. But God causes all things to work together for those who love him! (Romans 8:28)
Since we couldn’t go to church (physically) or access our own church’s live sermon, we decided to stream the service for that morning from Pastor Steven Furtick at Elevation Church. As we watched and listened to what he was talking about, I could see my son’s eyes fixed on the tv – not because I made him sit and watch it, but because he was absorbing everything that Pastor Steven was saying.
The reason why that Sunday was so special, was because my son, who is 8, decided to ask Jesus into his heart!
I remember him kneeling in front of the sofa with his head on the cushion. He never said anything out loud, or told me and my hubby anything. I never thought to ask him about it, though, until the other day. I was putting him in his bed and asked him if he’s ever asked Jesus into his heart. He told me it was the Sunday we stayed home.
My heart melted. All the mom feelings came to the surface, and I tried NOT to get emotional. But it hit me like a ton of bricks. THAT’S why 2018 was a challenge. It was because God was preparing me and my family for the next season spiritually.
The new year. The next chapter.
Whatever you are going through, make it your declaration to keep going. Keep praying. Keep trusting… even when you’re scared to death. God is refining you. Shaping you. Molding you into what He has planned for your future.
Looking for a church? Visit the church guide at lifesongs.com! Can I encourage you to NOT just pick one by saying eeny meeny miny mo! Pray and ask the Lord to lead you to where He is calling you to be. When He speaks, be obedient because wherever He does lead you, He has great plans in store for you!
Jeremiah 29:11 (TLB)
“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”