Thank God for 2009

Another year has passed. A new year begins. Looking back at the year that ended, I can't help but be thankful for all the things that happened to me, good or bad, happy or sad, fruitful or painful. Year 2009 made me appreciate more of God's goodness and faithfulness, even if most of the times, I don't deserve them anymore.

I specifically thank God for these things that somehow, made me a better person.

Having an accountability/discipleship group. It was with hesitation at first to be a part of this group since I knew that my life will be an open book to them. But I praise God that I attended our first meeting because from that time on, I look forward to every sessions. We are a group consists of four ladies, all of us wives of leaders in the church. Our meetings helped me know more about our awesome God. I became familiar with the women in the Bible and how they were used by God. We studied God's words, shared our victories and trials and most importantly, we prayed for each other's burdens and concerns. It was a great relief knowing that every day, there are people praying for me.

Having a church ministry. For many years I had been a Christian, I was comfortable being just a church attendee. But deep in my heart I know that there's more to it than just being a Sunday Christian. Out of my longing to serve God and out of His grace to me, He opened an opportunity for me to be a part of the choir for our church' Christmas Cantata. What a joy it was to be able to serve the Lord I love! Not only that. I thank God for the new friendships from my fellow choir members and others who used to be just acquaintances.

Being a Content Producer/Contributor at AC. Towards the last quarter of the 2009, I signed up at Associated Content out of my need to earn extra money. I am not a writer by profession, but I can write "some" good stuff so I decided to take part on it. At first it was for the money. Until I receive comments from my readers. My heart overflowed with joy at the thought that somehow, I have touched lives, inspired and encouraged others. From then on, it has been my goal to reach others for Christ through my writings. I did not mind the "very little" income I get from doing this ('though I am thankful of getting paid just writing my thoughts). The best part? I had a chance to share my faith, at the same time enjoying my passion of writing. Not to mention meeting fellow contributors who are respected in their own fields, yet so kind-hearted and very helpful to a newbie like me. I gained many new friends in AC from different places in the world!

Trials and Sufferings. I've been through ups and downs as well last year. My husband got sick a few days before our family summer vacation. But just when we thought it would be impossible for us to push thru our plans, God made him well. My youngest daughter got hospitalized a few weeks before Christmas. But God showed His goodness again by being in control. Our car's rear windshield was broken in an attempt of theft. Although we spent money for the repair, we thank God nothing was taken from us and no one was harmed.

What a year 2009 was! I know of some people who regard last year as their worst year. But best or worst, may we still find something to be thankful of. Like what 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "In everything, be thankful,..." (NIV)