Remember 2011 and Grow!
Want to Grow? Then slow down. Take time to reflect. Nurture your soul."I will remember the deeds of the Lord, yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago" Psalm 77:11In ny January e-newsletter THRIVE www.poppysmith.com I promised to share some of the deeds of the Lord that I want to remember. 2011 already seems like long ago, but I don't want to forget the miracles of God's presence in so many situations. Here are some of His deeds that I remember with gratitude:
- Comfort when I learned my daughter and her family were moving a few thousand miles away.
- A strong reminder from a friend that I mustn't give up writing my new book Why Can't He Be More Like Me? when I wanted to throw in the towel!
- Support from my husband, who read every chapter and allowed me to write about him (and me)!
- Physical and spiritual strength to keep up a busy speaking schedule while writing.
- Teaching in various settings in Kenya--where I lived long ago and felt blessed to return.
- Writer friends who cheer me on and happily read my material.
- Support of volunteer assistants, without whom I couldn't reach others with God's word.
Lessons I take away from 2011?
- God's ways are not my ways. Isaiah 55:8-11. He is able to fulfill His purposes for me.
- God calls me to persevere in His work, anything less is to turn back from following Him.
- God's gifts of wisdom, challenge, correction, and spiritual hunger came in many ways: His Word, His Spirit, Christian community, and friends in tune with Him. Valuing their impact on me in 2011fills me with joy and anticipation for growth in 2012.
How were you blessed in 2011? What do you remember about God's goodness? Share your praises or comments. "Let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:25.Wishing you a happy and spiritually blessed 2012!Poppy