THE YEAR OF INTENTIONALITY

...And just like that, the 2022 season comes to an end.

What a year, what an experience. It is so good to reflect on the past year and then look ahead to the next year. Last year was, without a doubt, the most difficult year I have ever gone through, but God is so good. Without him, I would not be here. In amongst the rough though, there were so many beautiful diamonds, so many beautiful moments.

Let's look at it shall we:

1. I became a worship leader, which is such a big role, but how beautiful it is to be called into servitude in God's kingdom.

2. I moved into my dream apartment which God blessed me with.

3. I did a holiday club at church.

4. I went on my first ever mission trip, and it was in Plett which was also a first for me.

5. I went on my first ever 2 day hike, which I thought I was going to die on.

6. I preached for the first time. God fulfilled a vision he gave me in 2020.

There were multiple times though where I did not think I was going to make it through. Many nights spent crying on the floor. Many days of insecurity, shame, anxiety, and almost depression. I was burnt out and bed ridden this year for the first time ever. And then got a new job which I am entering into in the now New Year.

In everything I have gone through, I can see God's hand in it. My word for last year was "Perseverance", and man did I have to persevere. This last year I found it so difficult to actually write about it, because it was just wave after wave after wave. But what a blessing to be able to look back and say, "I made it. I am here."

My word for next year is, "Intentionality". I am so excited for this next chapter. This year my intentionality specifically in God's kingdom is about to take its next step. Intentionality in the lives of the youth girls I have been walking alongside. Intentionality in the lives of the band. Intentionality with my relationship with God. Intentionality in the friendships I have formed. And intentionality in my new work place. This new position of manager that I am stepping into is quite a daunting, yet exciting one. I want to be the kind of leader that reflects God, one that serves... One that is kind and gentle, yet strong and firm. One that has an open heart and leads with love. I have never been a manager, and I know it will come with its obstacles and trials, but if I made it through this year, honestly I can make it through anything.

What is your word for this next year? What is your main goal? Are you wanting your life to stay the same, or are you looking for a radical change?

I am mostly excited to see how God is going to work in and through me next year. I have become only his vessel. My life is not my own, which is so freeing, so liberating. When we trust and know God's plans are greater for us, then we needn't worry about what may happen.

An exciting scripture I received for the New Year is:

II Corinthians 5: 17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Happy New Year!

Some highlights: