REFLECTIVE PAUSES

The festive season is already upon us and there always seems to be an unconscious gravitation towards celebrations, movement, and gatherings. There is always a party to attend, a wedding, a trip to take, or a celebration of some sort; late-night experiences became the norm followed by groggy mornings. Time seems to go twice as fast. We just got to December and I have already begun experiencing this.

Yet in the overwhelming nature of the festivities, we can forget to take necessary pauses that allow us to reflect; both on the year that’s ending and the year to come. Many of us think of new year resolutions at the onset (in January) rather than begin to prayerfully reflect and plan days, weeks, or even a month prior. Before the holiday kicks in full motion, I invite you to spend some time reflecting; on your spiritual, emotional, financial, mental, and social.

Attached is a template that has proved beneficial over the years. It consists of reflective questions covering all areas of your life. God is mindful of you in entirety, why would you not equally be careful to consciously evaluate and redirect your life to the path of endless growth?

As you assess how your months/ year has been, I pray that God will give you strength, where you have felt is lacking, and hope where you feel despair because He is the God of hope and also a change in attitude so that you realize He is always working behind the scenes, whether you see it or not. May the Holy Spirit quicken your heart and may He bring you to a place of remembrance as you quiet your mind and heart to recall His marvelous doings.

So take some time and be alone, reflect in prayer and in thanksgiving. Then invite a friend and you can strengthen each other as you share your testimonies; teach, encourage and celebrate together as you chart paths of growth for the coming year. This will not only spark faith but will also strengthen your view of God and the powerful ways He can move.