I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas! It’s hard to believe this year is coming to a close.
When I think back over this year, I think the best word to describe it is unexpected. So many unexpected things happened in my life and that of my friends, these top the list:
· After deciding to stay home full-time at the beginning of the year, I thought I’d have more time to organize and clean my house, write, and exercise. I didn’t anticipate that I’d be busier than ever and I have no idea how I got anything done while I was working.
· Using almost all of our savings over one month’s time to pay for a new air conditioner, garage door opener, auto repairs, rental house expenses, broken wedding ring, etc.
· Two different friends had surprise pregnancies and both babies are now in heaven.
· Having a friend move far away, but then meeting some new friends shortly after that I’ve really enjoyed spending time with.
· My Grandpa Joe passed away in October. While he had been sick for a long time and we knew he would go to heaven soon, it still was difficult to receive that unexpected phone call at 4 AM on a Sunday that he had passed.
· Our church is in transition to become a satellite campus for the church that planted us, so excited about this!
· My husband injured his foot playing football, which meant some extra work for me to take care of him and the kids while he was laid out on the couch.
· Doctor’s appointments and unexpected health testing for someone close, would love your prayers for clear results!
As I think over all that’s happened this year, I see how God is teaching me to trust Him. If you’ve known me for a while, you know that I really struggle with worry. But I love how God has brought me so far! Through all the unexpected things that happened this year, God has comforted me and is teaching me not to worry because He is in control and He has my best interest (and yours) at heart.
Of course I have my moments where the worry takes over and my mind reels with the “what ifs” and “could happens.” But I’ve made enormous strides because I’ve realized that when I worry, I’m not trusting God. And oh, how I want to trust Him more!
I don’t know what 2013 will hold, but I do know the One who holds the future. When I worry, I try to remember these words:
Don’t worry, because I am with you.
Don’t be afraid, because I am your God.
I will make you strong and help you;
I will support you with my right hand that saves you . . .
I am the Lord your God, who holds your right hand,
And I tell you, “Don’t be afraid. I will help you.”
– Isaiah 41: 10, 13 (NCV)