Rediscovered Wonder

Often times I like to stop and reflect on the events of my life and what is taking place at the moment. I am happy to be able to say that this January has already surpassed all of my expectations for the month, but only because Jesus is so, so, so good to me! I have been busy recuperating my semblance of routine after I returned home from Mexico for the holidays (which I will post about...eventually). Starting a new school semester, balancing a homework schedule, bible quizzing practices, planning exciting things (which are soon to be revealed), and crossing things off of my to-do lists.

By far the most exciting thing that has happened, is that I have begun a 12 week bible study with a young girl and her mother. I have helped with bible studies before, recieved group bible studies, and given small group bible studies, but I have never given a one-on-one home bible study before and the thought of doing so kind of intimidated me. But the past few weeks have shown me just how exciting it can be to share what you know with others, and just how rewarding it is to yourself as well. Perhaps because I've been raised in church I feel like everyone knows all of the main bible stories we hear in Sunday school, but sharing these with people that don't know all about it is so refreshing! The look on their faces of curiosity, discovery, and enlightenment have definitely been an encouragement to me, as well as a source of rediscovered wonder. I love hearing their questions and being able to help them find an answer. Mostly I love the nearness of the presence of God that is felt. The openness with which we can communicate back and forth on thoughts or questions that may be troubling them at the moment. It feels so right.

                                                                                                                                                                      
To God be the glory is a song that is continuously on my mind and it so describes my feelings at the moment. He is so good. I can never say that enough, because he really is. He gives me a fresh start each and every day to make better choices, to change situations,and to better myself. He helps me through the downs and he is the rock that never fails. I could lose it all, but as long as I have him, I know I will be alright. Most of all, he loves me. He loves you. He loved us so much that he has given us the chance to be cleansed and saved with his own blood.

To God be the glory

To God be the glory

To God be the glory

For the things He has done

With His blood, He has saved me

With His power, He has raised me.

To God be the glory

For the things he has done.

I definitely do encourage every one of you readers to find someone you can start a bible study with. Offer someone a chance to learn more in depth about what you believe and why. It is such a privilege to be able to share the truth and see God working in the hearts of those you speak to. Be flexible with your time and make the most of each session by really preparing, and by really listening to what it is that you are speaking about. Be passionate about what you are communicating and allow God to be able to use you, like we so often ask him to do.

xoxo,

A Grand Finale Post

2015 you've been good to me. The glittering moments that fade into memories, the sunsets filled with laughter and love, and the joy I've lived everyday. That is how I'll remember you. I checked off a large chunk of my resolutions that I made in January, and am quite proud. I travelled to new places, made new friendships, and let go of some things that I can't change. As the year comes to an end, I reflected on the people that I lost this year, the ones I haven't seen in a while, and the ones that are still by my side that I want to cherish and keep near. The ups always outweigh the downs, regardless of any situation, this statement always holds true. With Jesus by my side I know that I WILL conquer all! There is no need for doubt, fear, or apprehension. Knowing this makes me feel as if I have wings and the sky is the limit. 

xoxo,