Birthdays always put me in a place of reflection. Every day is a day of thanksgiving, but every year that I am alive is cause for a pause. I remember thinking as a child that I wouldn’t live to see the age of 32, because my father died at a young age. I think back on my goals and dreams in life, and I reflect on my purpose. I tend to self-evaluate my existence thus far. The Bible says let a man examine himself. Although I am always seeking to please God, birthdays lead me to reflect on my business with God. Am I doing what God has called me to do? I reflect on myself as a wife, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a friend, and other capacities that I exist. I challenge myself to become better or become the best version of myself.
“His grace is sufficient for me…”
Reflection should not turn into self-hate! I do not loathe in my failures, or my inadequacies. Yes! I have them both! I have not always been my best self! There have been times that I have failed as a mother, a daughter, a wife, a friend. I have failed in other capacities as well. My failures keep me humble and challenge to me to constantly rely on God’s unfailing love and strength. His grace is sufficient for me; His strength is made perfect in weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:9) So I can brag even in my infirmities because that the power of God dwells in me. In other words, God has my back! He builds me up in places that I have been torn down. This is the confidence that we have in God. He has provided strength for us at our weakest moments.
Reflection encourages my heart! No matter my failures, my bank account, my level of education, or even my current job, my reflection is always an attitude of gratefulness. My reflection is that I am alive and I celebrate that God has yet given me time. There is still time for me to conquer one more dream or began another challenge. At age 50 complacency is just so easy! 😀 (Ask me how I know 😀 ) However, I take refuge in one of my favorite scriptures. He who has begun a good work in me is faithful to complete it until Jesus Christ returns. Philippians 1:6. God will continue His work in me! I still have a lot more living to do! I still have a desire to return back to school and complete my Master’s degree that I started before I became pregnant with Ethan fifteen years ago. Even at the age of 50, I still have a desire to change my career path! I still want to lose this baby weight! 😀 LOLOL! Although I have a few more aches and pains, I am so thankful to be alive.
It may not be your birthday but take time out to reflect! Take an inventory of your life, and yes, include your failures. Just don’t dwell on them, because your mistakes and failures are a part of the plan. As you reflect, make sure you include God’s loving plan for your life. Know that God is yet completing the work that He began in you. Eyes have not seen, nor ears heard the great things he has in store for those that love Him. I Corinthians 2:9.
Blessings to you my Sistas!
Lady J