This is my last blog of 2009. There is so much to say about this past year. It will definitely be a year of remembrance, not all in a good way unfortunately. This year was certainly a year of trials, hardships, and a testing of my faith. I learned to rely on God more than ever. In the words of Tye Tribbett, "I have no other choice but to trust You." Those lyrics, honestly, came to my mind many times throughout this year. In 2009, I was shaken out of my comfort zone and my perfect little world was turned upside down. I faced financial hardships, relationship meltdowns, loss of trust & friends, and changes beyond belief. There were a lot of tears, pain, frustration, and the constant asking of, "Why?!".
Although, I do wish all these things never happened, I can truly say that I am glad that they did. I have been blessed to have such a wonderful, carefree, and privileged life thus far. I grew up without a worry in the world and experienced many blessings and privileges that others did not. As many of these "norms" in life were removed, I found myself learning to appreciate the facets of life that really matter: my salvation, my family, my health, my true friends, and my spiritual purpose in life. I'm not saying that I was spoiled brat before, but I really did take for granted many things in life, as they were the norm in my life; I knew no other way. Despite it all, I am thankful for all that happened this year. I told myself I did not want to become bitter, resentful, or a complainer. I tried my best to remain positive and trust in God. My character has grown, my outlook in life has changed, my faith has grown, and I learned to appreciate what I did not before.
Here are some verses and quotes that really helped me through 2009:
-Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.
-The Lord will not leave you nor forsake you.
-Nothing lasts forever.
-And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
-His eye is on the sparrow.
-But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
-The story of Job.
God is just amazing and His word is true! He came through countless times in 2009. We serve a miraculous God.
There were, however, good memories this past year. For one, I graduated college! This was a huge accomplishment as I have been working towards this goal for over 5 years. It was such a relief and proud moment to achieve that. Along with graduating, I, in a way, left childhood and entered real adulthood. Leaving the student life that I had known for so long and entering the full-time working world. It has been a different experience and, although I miss school terribly, I am enjoying this transition. I also have matured and learn so much about myself this year. I have decided more or less how I want my life to proceed. I have set goals and plans that I want to accomplish within the next few years. I am excited for that! I am also thankful for the new people that have come into my life...pastors, leaders, and friends.
I am entering 2010 with a take-charge, kick-butt, accomplishing mentality! I have so many goals that I am striving to attain this year. I want to improve myself spiritually, physically, socially, academically, intellectually, humanitarian-ly, and leisure-ly (are those words?! haha.) I pray I can fulfill them all.
Thank you 2009 for everything, despite it all, but you will not be missed! Hello, 2010! I'm ready for ya! :)
Happy New Years to all!
Much love,
Sarah
