no.224 131210 Thank you for the prayer time

Candy canes!

While I was waiting for my mom in the car for her appointment, I had a great opportunity to pray out loud. I like praying aloud when I'm alone. It's just that there aren't that many times where I am alone at home so I would usually whisper or just pray in my head before going to bed. At first, I was singing along to my Hillsong playlist. And then it got me thinking about something, which then converted to time of prayer. As I prayed, God gave me a thanksgiving heart towards something that happened a while ago. It's something that happened years ago between my friend and I, and I always questioned why and felt bitter towards that broken relationship. He was one of my closest friends so when something bad happened to our relationship, it gave me a hard time. I would say it's mended now, at least that's what I like to think. But I recently realized that I'm actually very thankful for that experience my friend and I had. When it initially happened, I seriously couldn't believe that it had happened. And it seemed like both of us went the wrong way ever since our broken relationship. When he shared his story earlier this year, it seemed like he wasn't the only one off track during the time we didn't talk. However, when I look at where I am and where he is now, I can only praise God and be grateful for what had happened. We both grew spiritually, and I'm so proud of him on what he's doing at this very moment. During my prayer time today, I was surprised to find these words come out from my mouth. I prayed to God "it was worth all the struggles, for not only how much I have grown, but also how much my friend has grown."

There are always struggles in our life. I don't understand why it's happening and I tend to question God why such a heartbreaking, troublesome event is going on in my life. It might be hard at the moment, and I may not understand what in the world is going on. However, I know my God is sovereign and He is omniscient. As long as He knows what's going on, that's all that matters. I know I will be scared and worried about the unclear visions in my life, but I must leave everything in God's hand. Even if I go through another hardship, I know that God will be with me and He will help me get through it. I know He won't give me the problem if it's something that I can't handle it. And once I get through it with God's help, I will be one step closer to being like Jesus and I know this will put a smile on God's face.

It's totally random but I feel like sharing this song with you - "This Gift" by 98 Degrees. It's so 90s and it's so cheesy. You'll know what I mean when you watch the video. Still, it's one of my favourite Christmas songs! Enjoy:)