Life is a highway, life is a rollercoaster, life is ... life.
It was not the best of starts, but it was not the worst of starts either. I think for most 2009 started rather shakily what with the economic crisis and all. I had felt (in 2008, if I remember correctly) that for me at least, 2009 was going to be a year of sanctification. With sanctification comes trials and of trials, the Bible says (in James 1:2-4):
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
My year paradoxically, has not started very well and yet in a way it has. I am grateful to my Lord Jesus Christ for the financial blessings I received (including the review contest I won today: third place, all glory to Jesus) and for the fact that I know God has something great for me this year. On the other hand, my rash recurred and my LLM assignment has been postponed on numerous occassions, the burden on my shoulders heavy, among other mishaps ... I think to myself every now and then, will I be able to stand after the trials, and am still holding on to the truth of the matter that is Jesus Himself will hold me up. It is not I that stand but that God holds me up in His omnipotent arms. Still the going has not been easy, not for me, not for most.
God gives and takes away. Who am I to complain? Job had the right attitude ...
'The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised. (Job 1: 21b)
Lord Jesus Christ, have Your way in me, with me.
May we all have a fruitful 2009, all for Jesus' glory.
