Oh Gracious God!
As the new year begins, many dive into setting goals, plans and resolutions, while others dismiss the idea entirely. Recently, I devoted more effort identifying my priorities for the upcoming year. I realize the value of time as it becomes more limited with age. So, I tackled my look ahead to 2024 with an urgency. In choosing a single word and Bible verse to guide me for 2024, 'GRATITUDE' resonated deeply within me.
Several months ago, the simple task of reviewing my professional bio turned into an unexpected profound moment. I approached this task as a checklist item but found myself overwhelmed with emotion and was literally moved to tears. I was stunned and overwhelmed by the journey God has guided me through. It's not the list of achievements and opportunities; rather, it dawned on me how good, faithful, and trustworthy He has been in my life.
This realization hit me hard - as decades ago I had not intentionally set out to travel down a path of walking so closely with the Lord or following into places I knew little or NOTHING about. It seems absolutely crazy, God would choose me to use in His greater plan for the world. I have come to understand it's not about the work or the serving Him that is most meaningful but instead drawing deeper into His nature that matters. In following where he leads we know Him more fully and allow the Lord into all the places of my heart and soul. Funny thing, what I thought was a mundane task unearthed a realization: my life, despite its twists and turns, has given me reasons to be grateful. It is a testament to God’s presence and guidance along the way.
Whether you are goal-oriented or set new year resolutions, I want to challenge you to take a few moments and reflect on the tangible and invisible blessings you’re grateful for. What intangible gift are you grateful for today? I’d love to hear about your thoughts and reflection.
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