It’s hard to believe 2018 has come and gone. It was a year full of struggles but also blessings. I am looking forward to 2019. To me, it is a year of new beginnings. While I don’t know what is in store, I know that God is in control. I have always considered picking a word for the year but never actually did it until last year. I chose the word JOY. As the new year begins, and I seek to determine my word for this year, I want to reflect on my Journey to Joy.
Joy to me has always seemed elusive. I have searched for the key for so long. I’ve known it’s there, it’s just seemed beyond my grasp. What must I do to take hold of it? I think it actually found me more than me finding it. Also, it came in the most unexpected way, one I never would have chosen if given a choice, yet so glad it happened.
Unexpected circumstances brought me to my knees, in full surrender to my Creator, to my Lord, Jesus Christ. This deep, abiding, unexplainable, indescribable joy. I have it now! It’s awesome and amazing. As I knew, it was there all along. I just had to be at a place where I could reach out and claim it. It is rooted in my relationship with God. He loves me, regardless. He is always with me, no matter what. Regardless of what’s happening in my life (or the world), no matter my circumstances, I have the knowledge that God is in control, He is on His throne. He has a plan, which is perfect and good. Nothing can separate me from Him or HIs love. It’s amazing actually. Part of me is devastated, heartbroken, unsure of the outcome, yet I rejoice knowing God loves me, Jesus suffered and died and rose again so I could have eternal life. He is working EVERYTHING for good, for HIs glory!
Everything that’s happened in my life has led me to this point. Sometimes I question my choices, regret them, yet I know God was not surprised by them. He allowed them in order to bring me here, to this point. I can “see” so much, it’s overwhelming. God’s plan isn’t just about me. It affects everyone around me, even some people I don’t know and may never meet. So many pieces, and He sees it all, not bound by time or space. Praying about my situation now, I see how God is using it all. I can see how all of it was necessary for me, but also for others. I have learned so much, grown in my faith, become stronger as a person. But then I think of others in the story. People praying, people watching, those I’ve told my story to, you reading this blog. God is using this in their lives, in your life. Just as I did, you have choices to make. Will you surrender to God, to His will, truly seek Him? Keep your eyes on Him no matter how hard? This is an awesome journey, so exciting! So much of what’s happening, we can’t even see. The spiritual battle taking place. But how awesome to be a part of it! That is joy! Things may not turn out how I want, but God is in control and He knows best. He is working everything for good. Because of that, I have deep, unexplainable, indescribable joy! My prayer is that you can also have it.