We are nearing the end of the year. As I get older, each year seems to fly by faster than before. We say to ourselves, “I can’t believe it’s almost over.” However, when something comes to an end, it is a good time to look back and reflect.
In Bible study, the question was asked, “Have you grown deeper with God since last year?” I think this is a great question to ask ourselves at the end of every year. Am I deeper in my relationship with God now than I was twelve months ago? Have I grown closer to Christ? What did I learn? Do I look more like Him now than I did then?
Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived, tells us, “The end of a thing is better than its beginning” (Ecclesiastes 7:8). At the end of something we get to look back and see the results. We can see clearer the hand of God and where He worked; we get to look back and reflect on how we have grown in Him. The end of a thing shows us the fruit, the harvest. The beginning is good, but the end is better.
Let us look at the end of this year and see the goodness of God. Let us examine our own lives and ask ourselves that question: Have I grown deeper in this year with God?
If the answer is yes, then great! Write down where and how and thank Him.
If the answer is I’m not sure, then truly examine your life. Ask God to show you if you have grown and where. And ask yourself what needs to be changed to make the answer yes?
If the answer is no, then stop what you are doing and seek God. Scripture says to search for Him and He will be found,1 to draw near to Him and He will draw near to you.2 But you must take that step if you want to be closer to Christ this year. Rearrange your day to make room for Him to grow you. Spend time in His word, in His presence, and in prayer. What changes can you make today, to change that answer for tomorrow?
In Christ,
Charisa
