Long story short...

I'm married!

New Years always brings about a bit of sentimentality and bittersweetness. Saying "goodbye" to the old and "hello" to the new. To be honest, New Years has always been my least favorite holiday. I've never been ready to say goodbye to Christmas and move on to a whole new year. New goals. New experiences. New people in life.... all things new. A bit scary, right? Or maybe you're the type of person who likes adventure, thrill, the "unexpected"? Great! I'm not, unfortunately... I like cozy, comfort, staying in bed, being cuddled up in a blanket, drinking coffee or hot chocolate. :) Mmmmm. Nothing's wrong with enjoying these blessings. BUT, there comes a point when you need to jump out of bed, get dressed, go out the door, work, meet people! Life starts as soon as you let it. Sometimes you need to get out of your little comfort bubble and take a shot at life.

Reflecting on 2015 (and the few years prior) I think that that is exactly the lesson I have been learning: to let go of fear and trust God. Trusting God entails faith. And faith is "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Even though you don't see or know the future, you can be sure that your Creator is looking out for you. He has your best interest in mind. And He will fulfill His purpose.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."

Proverbs 3:5-8 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones."

So, what about the future? What about the "known" and the "unknown"? This is where faith comes in. Trust the LORD! Yes, there might be times of sadness and grief. But for the believer, it doesn't end there. God has promised goodness, peace, and life evermore. (Psalm 31:19; Psalm 16:11; Psalm 23:6; Isaiah 26:3-4)

Whatever 2016 brings, lay hold of this... that He is good and that He loves you! When you let go of fear and embrace Him, you can live a thrilling life. When you choose to love and be loved. Love is powerful. Love changes things. And love never fails.

Thankfully, God is love. When we embrace Him, we embrace love. And "perfect love casts out fear" (1 John 4:18). So, let go of fear and embrace God and the love He has for you!

Goodbye 2015, Hello 2016. :)