May 15, 2017 Reflections
I turn another year older tomorrow so, as usual, I am doing a lot of reflecting. It’s sobering to realize that I probably have more years behind me than I have ahead of me but I really don’t have much to show for it. At times, I remind myself that, if I even reach one person and if my influence and encouragement caused that person to draw ever nearer to the Lord, my life is not wasted. I wonder if I’ve reached that one person yet. I’m not sure.
During this time of celebration, I know that the enemy would like me to become discouraged, defeated, and depressed. I admit that I am a bit discouraged at present but I also know that the fact that I’m alive means that God still has a plan for my life. Every morning I wake up is a new day in which to serve my Father. So I press on.
My heart is burdened for those I know that are not walking close to the Lord, those who seem to be letting the world and their feelings guide their actions as opposed to the Word of God. I feel helpless and yet I know that God is still the same today as He was yesterday. He desires that none perish but that all come to repentance. This begins with me. I feel like this coming year will continue to be one of growth. I pray that I will be faithful. I don’t know what is going to happen with me, my health, my family, my work, etc. But I trust the One who holds my future in His hands. I don’t need to worry because I know that He knows what is best for me, and He will lead me in the way that I should go if I stay close to Him.
I go through times where I really struggle. Depression, discouragement, self-pity, etc. tries to bring me down. Thankfully God always reminds me that it is not an option to just lie down and die. Then He gives me at least a little more fight to get up and keep trying.
The world is full of so much that would distract us and bring us down. I’m so glad that the One who lives in me is greater than the one who is in the world. He will not leave me or forsake me. I simply need to trust and obey.
I want to thank each of you who take the time to read my blog. I know I have not written much lately. This is my busy season so it’s hard to find the time to write as much as I would like. Thank you for bearing with me. I will write again when I can. May you experience God’s peace today in the midst of every storm. He is such a good Father who loves you so much.
I can say for certain that there is at least one person you have reached and helped many times. Me! I thank God for your friendship!