Reflect–What Do You See?

As many normal things take a break for Christmas and end of the year busyness, most of us also reflect back on the year and plan for the next.
 
If you take several hours or a day and seriously reflect back on the year, what do you see? What would you re-do? What moves you to thankfulness? What generates hope?
 
Most important, have you experienced personal growth in 2021?
 
Getting past what’s going on in the world and past the hardships and hassles you’ve had, how have you grown in 
•Your faith?
•Your identity and character?
•Your personal maturity?
•Your relationships?
•Your career?
•Your contribution to the world or the Kingdom of God?
 
As I reflect, have I been discouraged, have I struggled? I sure have.  
Am I going forward, not backward or static? Absolutely.
Did I live in ways that blessed and benefitted others? More than the previous year.
 
I’ve grown more focused in my calling. I’ve grown as a husband, and Kim and I have grown in our marriage beyond where either of us ever expected it could be. I’ve grown as a Bible college teacher and as a director in restarting a pastoral training center. I’ve grown as a mentor. And I’ve grown and expanded as a book editor.
 
When I list those things, I’m encouraged! 
How about you? Try it. 
And feel free to let me know. It’s good to express it.
Even a short list is encouraging.

The grace of God plus intentional effort makes for a beautiful combination.

Merry Christmas!