Never Once

"Scars and struggles on the way 

But with joy our hearts can say

Yes, our hearts can say.. 

Never once did we ever walk alone

Never once did You leave us on our own

You are faithful, God, You are faithful 

You are faithful, God, You are faithful"

This song, "Never Once," by One Sonic Society is a great summary of what has been going on in my heart as I begin to reflect on 2014.

At the beginning of every year I always wonder what God has in store for that year.  There is always anticipation as I think about all the potential an entire year has.  As I began 2014, my thinking was no different, but instead of the year of blessing and 'immeasurably more' that 2013 was, 2014 threw many unexpected curveballs my way.

2014 has been a year where it seems like there has been one valley after another.  Smacking my head on ice at the end of 2013 that lead to ongoing concussion symptoms.  Extended family members dealing with severe health crises.  My grandma unexpectedly admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with cancer.  Instances where "iron sharpens iron" (Proverbs 27:17) felt literal and where friendships were tested deeply.  And finally, the loss of the family dog that, even though I am not an animal lover, hit hard because as my one friend told me, it's been a season of loss in my life...not necessarily literal, but the fear of it has been.

One valley after another.

Yet, looking back on everything this year has brought, honestly, I wouldn't change any of it.  The fear was very real.  The pain and tears cried were immense.  But, sometimes it takes going through the fire to be refined and, by the grace of God, we can come out stronger.

At times, it felt like this year was draining me.  However, a couple weeks ago I came to a place of being in awe of God's faithfulness.  Never once did He leave my side.  Never once did He leave my family's side.  He didn't leave us alone, and He never will!  And, as a tangible expression of His love, He put so many people in my life who have stood by my side through everything this year has brought my way.  He is truly faithful!

Life is not without struggles...we are living in a broken world, and therefore we will be subjected to the effects that sin brings.  BUT, the crazy, amazing thing is that because of Jesus, we never will be alone.  Because of Jesus, no matter comes our way, we will come through and have a powerful testimony of the goodness, faithfulness, and grace of our God.  Because of Jesus!  Without Jesus, all these struggles would've felt hopeless.  BUT, with Jesus there is always hope!  That's what the Christmas season is about.  That's what life is about.  Without Jesus, there is no purpose, BUT with Jesus there is purpose as we walk in intimate relationship with Him.

Be encouraged!  No matter what your year has been like...whether you've been on the mountaintop or in the deepest, darkest, and scariest valley...know that Jesus is ALWAYS with you!  He will NEVER leave you nor forsake you.  Just call out His Name!  You are LOVED!