I have experienced this Scripture throughout the many challenging, and triumphant, seasons of my life:
"I’ll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I’m doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for." (Jeremiah 29:10b-11 MSG)
God has always shown up. He's kept His Word. He knows what He is doing, and His way has always been better than mine! I love His plan because He has woven my life into a beautiful tapestry of His love. Out of the many messes, wrong choices, missteps, and so much more, He has given me beauty for ashes so many times.
"So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose." (Romans 8:28 TPT)
This is my birthday month and birthday week, with today, May 9th, being my actual birthday! I usually reflect and celebrate all month. While I am thankful for completing another year of life and walking in my purpose, I haven't really wanted to put a spotlight on it.
Instead, I'm pressing into Jesus. I'm focusing on living in the Word of God, which is my mandate for 2023. I'm seeing what, and who, is real, and who is for me not just in words but in actions. The older I get, the more I realize that talk is cheap.
I'm evaluating where to invest my resources, time, and energy, recognizing where I can best bring honor and glory to God in my serving. I'm moving strategically. I'm listening closely for the voice of God so I can follow His directions.
In this season, I'm stepping away from the noise and stepping into His silence, peace, and love.
As I said, talk is cheap. I, too, must have corresponding actions. So, as I step into my New Year, I'm thankful and excited. It's God, Michael, and me! A threefold cord that can't be broken.
"A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." (Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT)
I welcome the new from God. I welcome Him working His new in me and through me. New doors of opportunity and growth are opening for me.
I am reminded that sometimes I must celebrate myself, make my own moments and memories, and not expect others to do so. I'm blessed by those that do but not upset if it doesn't happen.
I rest in the fact that God takes delight in me with gladness. His love calms my fears. He rejoices over me with joyful songs.
"For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” (Zephaniah 3:17 NLT)
So, today I take a moment to celebrate the life God has given me. I. Am. Thankful.
Be Encouraged! ❤