An Ebenezer Year

Several years ago I had a conversation with a friend that would change my life. It wasn’t an easy discussion – in fact, she gently and lovingly let me know that the cause of much of my frustration was my own doing. The more I was setting my own agenda over God’s plan, and the harder I was striving to make my dreams happen on my own, the further away I was heading from God’s true desire for my life.

She spoke openly and with love regarding several areas of my life, and as I received and began to act on her words, God began to refine my heart. I started to lean into God and His plan for my life, and as I asked Him to help me stop striving – as He released me from having to be everything for everyone – He started to open doors. In His perfect timing.

If I were to put themes to my year as I reflect on them, last year was a refining year. This year was a trusting year. Trusting that the door God had opened to my dream wouldn’t be taken away; despite the fears and insecurities I carried with me. Trusting that He had me in this space, in this job, in this season of motherhood and marriage, for such a time as this. Trusting that – no matter how hard it has been to remember to put my own agenda at the foot of the cross – His way is best.

As the year ends, I’m finally feeling settled into trusting God with my to-do list and dreams and giving them back to Him, because He first gave them to me. God is faithful to keep His promises and He promises that His plans for us are good. It’s a reminder I speak over myself daily – and there are three areas that have helped me stay focused on God…

I’m beyond excited to be sharing the rest (and 3 areas that have helped me stay focused on God) over at Mici Magazine’s blog today! Will you join me there & read the rest? And be sure to check out Mici Magazine while you’re there. Those gals are the best – I got to meet them at Declare this year, and their magazine is just gorgeous! The next issue comes out in February and you definitely won’t want to miss it!