Because of Jesus, 2016 Was a Good Year
By Rev. Lonnie C. Crowe
Philippians 4:4-8: “Rejoice
in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything by
prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto
God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your
hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are
true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever
things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good
report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these
things.”
In these last days of 2016, the Holy Spirit has led me to
meditate on the above passage. During
this past year, I have often struggled to take every thought captive, but the
Lord has even more often pulled me up by “my boot straps” and brought to mind
those things that are honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and
praise worthy. In the past months, Psalm
23 has become deeply ingrained in my spiritual DNA.
Moment by moment, the Lord has shown Himself to be my
shepherd. He has richly supplied every need out of His riches in glory by
Christ Jesus. In the midst of confusion
and chaos, He has taken me to green pastures of rest in Him, to the quiet
waters of His restoration so that my soul has found peace and the right
direction. I have literally walked
through the valley of the shadow of death three times this year with the
passing of my dear husband, one brother-in-law, and, a couple of weeks ago, my
older brother. My younger brother has
been seriously ill; my remaining brother-in-law has been injured. Yet, God has comforted, guided and
strengthened me.
In the midst of all, He has taken me to His banqueting table
and covered me with His banner of love.
When I look back over this year, I see where my cup of joy has overflowed
again and again and again. Because of my journey with Him through this tumultuous
year, I know that I know that I know goodness and mercy shall follow me all the
days of my life and I will dwell with Him forever.
It has been a good year.
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