Reflections on 2019

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24 Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.

Psalm 31:24 (NIV)

24 Be strong, and live courageously, all of you who set your hope in the Eternal!

Psalm 31:24 (VOICE)

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As I sit down and reflect on another year gone by, I can't help but think about the roller-coaster ride I have been on. The times of great happiness, the times of deep sadness, the times of excitement, and the times of fright. Through it all, God has been there. From, when I got my first year university results, to when we lost Grandma. He was there. In every moment. Acting for my greatest good.

As I reflect on the decade gone by, from starting secondary school, to starting University, from doing my GCSEs to studying for a degree, from being a junior soldier to signing my soldiers covenant, from chronic pain to a relatively pain-free life - God has been with me every step of the way. I am so much stronger because of it. Yes, there have been times I'd rather not dwell on, but those were the moments that have made me who I am. Even though I have hurt, it is just as much a part of who I am, as the euphoria I felt on the day I walked again.

At this time of reflection, I have been reminded of Psalm 31:24. The NIV is the version I have used throughout the blog so far, as I believe it is a good clear version however, for this particular verse, the VOICE translation offers, I believe, a greater insight. You see, we are called to be strong and live a life of courage, all of us who hope in the Eternal. This translation reminds who we set our hope in, not one that fades like the world we see around us but in the One who is Eternal, living forever and whose promise never fails. How amazing is that! It truly blows my brain.

So as you reflect on the year gone past, in anticipation of the year to come, remember that just because you might not like what has gone on in the past; the birth of Christ at the climax of advent, and the death and resurrection through Easter means that God does not let your past disqualify you from your future reward with Him.

The final reflection of 2019: Is 2020 going to be a year of living courageously and bold, hoping in the Eternal, putting your faith in action and yearning more for Him, or will you fade like the world around you?

Dear Lord,

We don't know what the future holds, but we place our trust in you. You are the One who calls us as His own. You are the One who holds our future. So when you say I am loved, I have no other choice than to believe in you. Please help me to be a light for you in 2020 in all that I find. In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen