As the sun rises on a new year, we are given a fresh opportunity to reflect on the journey behind us and to step boldly into the plans God has for us. For me, 2024 was a year of profound lessons, spiritual challenges, and immense growth. It was a year marked by trials that tested my resolve and triumphs that reminded me of God's unchanging faithfulness.
One of the most important takeaways from 2024 is this: every lesson was necessary. Whether it came in the form of joy or pain, celebration or struggle, God allowed it all to shape me into the person He is calling me to be.
Lessons Learned in 2024
Trials Refine Us
Early in 2024, I encountered unexpected obstacles—moments where I felt physically and spiritually weak. Later, a hospital stay and surgeries tested my faith, but they also taught me to lean fully on God’s promises. James 1:2-4 reminds us:
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
Those moments of weakness became opportunities for God’s strength to shine. They reminded me that the trials we endure refine us, much like gold is refined in fire.
God's Timing is Perfect
There were times in 2024 when I questioned the pace of my journey. Why did certain things take longer than I expected? Why did some doors remain closed? But as I leaned into prayer and waited on the Lord, I learned that His timing is always perfect. Ecclesiastes 3:1 says:
"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
God’s delays are not His denials. Instead, they are His way of preparing us for greater blessings.
Alignment is Key
One of the most transformative lessons I learned this past year was the importance of alignment—being in step with God’s will and purpose. Alignment requires trust, surrender, and the willingness to let go of our own plans. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."
As I aligned my heart and steps with God’s plan, I found clarity and peace, even in the midst of uncertainty.
Community Matters
In moments of doubt and weariness, the prayers and support of my spiritual community carried me. God reminded me that we were never meant to do life alone. Hebrews 10:24-25 speaks to this:
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Your community is not just a source of support; it’s also a source of accountability and encouragement.
Moving Forward into 2025
As we step into 2025, I encourage you to reflect on the lessons God has taught you in the past year. Every trial, every victory, every moment of stillness has been preparing you for what’s ahead. God wastes nothing.
Let us move forward with hope, trusting that the same God who carried us through 2024 will continue to guide us in the new year. As Isaiah 43:18-19 reminds us:
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."
In 2025, may we embrace the new thing God is doing in our lives. May we trust His plans, walk in alignment with His will, and surround ourselves with community that uplifts and encourages.
Here’s to a year of growth, purpose, and unshakable faith.
Happy New Year!
In His service,
Dr. Les
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