2013

Wow, here we sit at the end of 2012, which hopefully we all thought we would see despite the maniacal claims that doomsday was upon us. No doubt this year has brought both blessing and tribulation in your life. There have been armfuls of both this past year in my life. Struggles, pain, tribulation, and fighting have been very real. Just as real have been the blessings, joy, and growth of this year. Sadly enough, the end of the year is one of those few times where we pause and reflect upon what has passed and what is to come. Reflection is something that most of us do not do often enough. Try taking some time to reflect on where you were last year. As you sat eagerly awaiting 2012 and the adventures to come, where was your mind? Where was your heart? How did you spend your time? Where did you invest yourself?

As I sat back and began to do this for myself, I the greatness of the work that God is doing in my life became very real to me. After reflecting upon 2012, I came to the realization of how much I have grown in the past year. It is difficult to see the growth (or lack of growth) that has taken place in your life without stopping and reflecting. If you aren’t constantly growing, then you are dying. If you sit and look back at where you were a year ago and you aren’t any closer to the Father, then you are not growing like you should be. True Christian growth is constant and never satisfied.

Keep growing. If you aren’t growing, then something needs to change. Maybe your attitude needs to change. Maybe your heart needs to change. Maybe the situations your put yourself in need to change. Whatever it is, you have to be willing to give it to God. Seek God. Follow him and truly know him. Don’t grow just for growth’s sake, that's called a tumor, grow as a disciple so that you can make much of Christ. Make 2013 better than 2012. Grow more this year than you grew this year. Continue being obedient and faithful. If you are obedient and faithful to the calling of God, you will find him in the most unexpected places.