Thinking back on 2021

 The year has come to an end, and as always it makes us look back and ponder about what transpired throughout the year we leave behind.  I am at a loss as to where to start.  I am in awe of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty.  There were many firsts this year for me and more so for my children.  Who could have thought that we would be where we are today?!  Only God can turn our lives upside down and then right again.  I find myself sometimes in disbelief that I am now a mom.  We get so caught up with daily stuff that sometimes we forget to acknowledge major milestones in our lives. 

Life can get quite repetitive and other concerns can hijack our focus from what’s important. The other day, I was a bit upset and frustrated over how my son reacts sometimes. They sure learn to get us rolling. Anyway, as I was feeding my frustration the Holy Spirit reminded me of how it was at the beginning.  That’s when I realized and stood in awe of God’s amazing kindness towards us.   God has truly been working in my son’s heart in such a short time.  I have seen so much progress in how my son processes his frustrations and disappointments, and it just makes my heart rejoice in the goodness of God. 

There is no way I can take credit for that change, only God can truly change our hearts. The other day I was reading the book of Isaiah about how a king of Israel failed to consult God when rumors of war came to him.  It really made me see how important it is to consult God ALWAYS.  Even with things we assume we have control of, which I dare say we really don’t.  I have very little experience parenting and the times I have seen the biggest change in attitudes has been when I have cried out to God for help in my heart.  It is not even audible, and He does hear and then turns the hearts of my kids back to doing what is right.

As I was trying to write this blog, which is way overdue, we had a very rough few days in regard to guiding and disciplining, especially with my son.  There was a day that I had to keep myself from crying every half hour.  I kept asking God for his help, and was not seeing a way out.  Yet towards the end of the day, God answered.  One of my biggest challenges is the lack of a dad, my son takes advice so much easier and better from men than from me.  So, God has graciously blessed my family with Godly men that can help me with my son.  I had a conversation with one of them and he greatly encouraged me, and I was able to reach out to someone else whom my son looks up to.  It really blessed my heart and gave my soul rest and renewed hope.  I have sensed lately that I need to be more intentional in creating opportunities in which my son can have an encounter with Jesus Christ.  I am convinced that it is only through His Holy Spirit that we can be transformed and healed.

These past couple of days have been so much better and I can see my family bonding more and more.  I can’t believe it’ll be a year next month.  How amazing is that?! I hope that amid any troubles or challenges you have, reading my story may encourage you and may highlight the goodness of God in your own life.  He does hear and He does answer.  So, as you look back and take into account what transpired, remember to also look for the evidences of God’s faithfulness and goodness, it will encourage you to trust Him more this year.