ending the year with gratitude

As this year is drawing to a close, I am once again reminded about the importance of practicing gratitude. Thankfulness/gratitude is a recurrent theme in the Word, mentioned 106 times in the Old Testament and 72 times in the New Testament. In fact, it’s one of the few specific things that we’re told is His will for us (1 Thess. 5:16-18). I’ve found that it’s easier for me to be grateful when I write down my prayers in a journal – otherwise, I forget what I’ve asked for and don’t notice His answers!

So, let’s take a moment to reflect upon this year and thank Him for His goodness. 

for nothing is impossible with God

I was recently challenged to step out in faith in the midst of fear. I’d been accepted into a 2-week, 80-hour intensive course (how to coach language learners) that would be taking place away from home. The Lord had prompted me to apply and then He quickly provided the funds. I knew I was supposed to attend the course, but I became terrified when I saw the actual schedule. I didn’t believe that there was any way I’d be able physically survive the two weeks of 12+ hour days! However, someone from my house church encouraged me with something the Lord had told him when he was anxious, “You’re afraid because you’re imagining your future with Me.” This strengthened my resolve and confidence! I didn’t have to be able to do this on my own – if the Lord had called me to it, He would equip me with the energy I needed.

There were some hard moments and I definitely felt pretty tired at times, but the Lord gave me the grace, energy, and sleep that I needed to successfully complete the two weeks! I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have yet another example of His faithfulness in my life. “For nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37)”