A New Start

I'm in Mississippi!

Wow. These last few days have been a rush......of everything, time emotions, prayers, conversations, there's been a lot going on.

In a lot of ways I'm really excited about this next year. There are some obvious dampers.....I MISS my loved ones back home....but the silver lining is that we won't be apart forever, and we serve the same God who will bring us through this often difficult time of life. However, by God's grace, that sadness is not going to be allowed to outshine the joy I have and the peace that has been granted to me by my precious Father.

It's a new year. A new start. A new beginning.

Last year I tried far to often to rely on myself.....and fell flat on my face.

This year I will have hard times, but God's grace will more then cover that.....and I will draw strength from him.

Last year I lived in fear.

This year I know that the Word is clear that "perfect love casts out fear."

Last year I was self-focused.

This year, by his power, I have more love, more joy and more grace to give away to those around me.

Last year I couldn't wait to go home.....so much so that it made me miserable while I was here.

This year, because I know that "He works all things for good for those who love him", I can't wait to go home! But I am content and enjoying the present.

Last year God was INCREDIBLY faithful, and I still ran from him.....

This year, I'll do the same thing more then once, but I'm trusting that the Holy Spirit will be even more evident in me as I see the error of my ways and run back to Him.

The Lord is good. His plan is perfect. His peace is incomprehensible. His joy is unspeakable. His love is never ending. His grace is always available. His hand is always on us. For that reason, this will be a good year.....because I serve a good God. It really is that simple. Hallelujah!

I love you all. May you rest in the peace of our Savior.