Reflections on 2024: Lessons Learned and Hopes for the Year Ahead
As 2024 comes to a close, I’ve been taking some time to look back over the past year. It’s been a season full of highs and lows, growth and waiting, but through it all, I’ve seen God working in my life in ways I never expected.
This year has been marked by some of the darkest seasons I’ve ever faced with my battle of depression and anxiety. There were days when the weight felt unbearable, and I wondered if I’d ever feel whole again. But even in those moments of deep despair, God was there. He reminded me that I wasn’t alone, and He carried me through when I felt too weak to take another step.
Learning to lean on Him in my hardest moments has taught me so much about His grace and strength. He showed me that even when I feel like I’m falling apart, He is holding me together. It’s in those moments of surrender, when I finally gave up trying to do it all on my own, that I truly experienced His peace.
Speaking of surrender, if there was one thing this year has taught me, it was that. Letting go and trusting God. I’ve wrestled with letting go of my plans and trusting that God’s timing is better than my own. I’ve seen His faithfulness show up in the quiet moments, in answered prayers, and even in the challenges that stretched me in ways I didn’t think I could endure.
Through it all, I’ve been reminded that God is always at work, even when I can’t see it. Whether it was the strength to show up for my family on the hard days, joy in the little things, or His provision in unexpected ways, He’s been there every step of the way.
As I reflect, I’m reminded of the beauty in the lessons learned. Surrender isn’t easy, but it’s taught me to trust Him more deeply. Waiting has stretched my faith, but it has also drawn me closer to Him. This year wasn’t perfect, but it was filled with moments that shaped my heart and helped me grow.
Looking ahead to 2025, my heart is filled with hope and anticipation for what’s to come. I’m excited about opening my faith shop, a dream that feels like a step of faith and an opportunity to share His love in new ways. I also feel a strong desire to dive deeper into theology and learn more about my faith, uncovering the richness and beauty of God’s Word.
This year, I want to be intentional about spending less time on social media and TV, making room for more meaningful activities—like reading books that inspire me and bring me closer to Him. I also feel God calling me to think beyond myself, to give more generously of my time and heart. Volunteering is something I want to focus on this year, serving others in tangible ways and reflecting His love in all I do.
Most of all, I want to continue learning to surrender and trust God fully. Letting go of control isn’t a one-time lesson; it’s an ongoing journey. But with each step, I’m reminded that His plans are far greater than my own.
This reflection time has also brought up a question I want to leave with you: where have you seen God at work in your life this past year? What is He calling you to focus on as we step into the new year?
Finally, I want to take a moment to thank you—from the bottom of my heart—for taking the time to read my blogs. This has been an incredible journey, and I’m so grateful for each of you who has walked alongside me. I look forward to writing more meaningful, relatable blogs that point us all toward the goodness of God.
Let’s enter 2025 with open hearts and a willingness to follow wherever He leads. Together, we can trust in His faithfulness and embrace the beautiful plans He has for each of us.
