I had the privilege to write a spiritual biography of my life recently. This has reminded me once again of how important it is to reflect on the work the Lord has done and is doing in my life. During past conferences and retreats through the years I have had opportunities to do this, and each time it is amazing how encouraging it is to remember God’s faithfulness, His mercy, and His love.
It is humbling to remember lessons past learned and exciting to look back and see how God has used my hurts, wounds, and imperfections for His glory despite my lacking efforts as well as my best efforts. It is encouraging to look back and be able to see how the Lord has grown fruit in my life for His glory. I have so very far to go, but it is nice to take time to see how very far I have come!
I am blessed as I reflect of the faithful people both in my family and those in my church family throughout the years who have loved my family and I and have helped us and supported us as we have grown in the love, knowledge, and service of Christ and His mission.
Colossians 1:9-14 (ESV)
“And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanksto the Father, who has qualified youto share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”