“God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them,” says the Apostle Paul. But do we truly believe this in the midst of every circumstance and trial we face in life? Do we really believe he has a purpose for our pain, sorrow, and despair? It may not always be easy to accept, but that doesn’t mean the words of Paul to be any less true.
There are many things in this world that constantly pull and beg for our attention, our heart, our worship, and our souls. The battle for our heart that takes place each and every day is an active one and one that begs to be acknowledged if one seeks any chance of keeping themselves one a straight and narrow path. Why? Because if we don’t learn to put up our guard as Christians, the enemy will seek every opportunity it can to steal, kill and destroy our hearts (John 10:10).
Prayer is the foundation in which we are called to lay all things upon. And as the end of 2016 comes to a close, the beginning of a new year filled with new opportunities and experiences is right around the corner. Let us first pray for safety and guidance as we set off into a new year, and let us also thank God for his goodness and provision for the year prior.
Over the past year, I’ve learned a lot about myself, my soul, my spirit, and my relationship with God. For those who know me personally know that I’ve always had a hard time slowing down, taking breaks, focusing on one thing at a time, and giving myself space to breathe before starting something new. I guess I just have a hard time letting time slip by without me being able to utilize it. I love to take hold of every opportunity.
My wife and I recently welcomed our second child into the world and we couldn’t be more excited. I can’t say that I’m a perfect parent, but I can say that both my wife and I try our hardest show our kids that they are loved, cherished and always welcome to come to us if they need something. There a lot of things about parenting you can’t really prepare for, which is what makes the journey that much more fun. But while my wife and I still have many years of parenting experiences, failures, and victories ahead of us, there are a few things I’ve already decided I will make sure to teach them about God.