New Year, New Life: 2013

Over the past few days, I have spent much time pondering over 2012 and all that it brought me. I was listening to a Pandora station recently and heard the old song "Blessed Be Your Name." For those of you that know that song, you know it's old; it takes me back to middle school youth group days. However, I worshipped along and really began to think about the lyrics. So many times I get caught up in songs and just sing along, but never really get what that song is really all about. I listened and got to the bridge and I was full of emotion as the words appeared so powerful to me. The lyrics say:

"You give and take away

You give and take away

My heart will choose to say

Lord, blessed be Your name"

As I heard these words, they became so real to me. I felt as if I had written these lyrics to so perfectly describe the year of 2012. Throughout my year, the Lord took things away from me, but He also gave me some incredible things. But at the end of this year and the beginning of a new one, all that matters is my heart has chosen to say, Blessed be the name of the Lord! I challenge you to do the same. Regardless of what you have been through, regardless of what you have lost, and regardless of what you may have been given, allow your life to be a blessing to the Lord and allow your heart to say that simple phrase. 

I spent some time creating a bucket list for the year of 2013. I am so excited to start tackling new goals, projects, and excited to make changes in my life. Change is always good and I can always do some improving in so many areas in my life. Here is my top 10 list for 2013: 

1. Read my Bible every day. 

2. Journal daily. 

3. Eat more healthy and exercise. 

4. Find a place to serve in children's ministry. 

5. Make new and true friendships. 

6. Try new things and check things off my bucket list. 

7. Keep my room clean more. 

8. Do more things around the house. 

9. Make All As. 

10. GIVE GOD THE GLORY FOR EVERYTHING. 

Check back as I blog throughout my year. See what things I am completing on this list and hear how the Lord is working in my life! Thanks for listening! 

Holding Open His Door, 

JB