Putting it to Practice!

Last week I finished the book of Ruth (yes, I jump around a lot with my Bible reading!) and I was thinking how awesome it was that everyone in that book gave all the glory, credit, and thanks to God. Ruth was in a terrible, tragic situation, but God pulled her through and turned it into blessings. AND Ruth ended up being in the lineage of David and Jesus. The thing is, so much of what happened to her could be casually credited to chance or luck or fate or even just her own strength and resourcefulness. I loved reading how everyone gave all the thanks to God, though. It is true, He works out our circumstances and is in control. Even things that seem insignificant might have a Godly purpose behind them.

I feel like in today's world it would be more common to not give the credit to God for these types of situations. That's why it's so important for believers to proclaim God's work in our lives! We have to tell the world that our blessings are from the Lord, and not just from our own strength or intelligence (even though we play a part...those abilities come from God, too!). If we aren't going to do it, then who will?

So, instead of writing a lengthy post all about this idea...I decided I should put it into practice! I want to take a few minutes to brag on all the awesome things God has done in my life lately. :)

• I graduated with my M.ED in Counseling in Student Services in Higher Ed! Not only did that require all the strength and dedication from God to make it through the program, but it was through his divine guidance that I even started this program. It was never my plan. But I've learned time and again that His plan is always so much better!
• We're going through all the seasons and holidays and "firsts" in our new house! Sometimes I just sit back in awe of it all. I never would have guessed this would be my life. But all the little details, while they are not things I would have anticipated for my life, are what make it so perfect. 
• I'm applying for full-time jobs in my field. I've already received my first "Dear John" letter. Yes it's early, and my hope and optimism could dwindle over time, but right now I'm not sad or even really disappointed. Yes, I would have loved to at least get an interview, but I just look at it as an exciting mystery. I don't know what job I will end up getting, but I know God has it figured out and it's going to be better than anything I could put together on my own. I just look forward to seeing it all unfold! 
• My husband and I are happier and more in love now than we ever have been. I'm pretty sure I loved my husband from the moment we started talking 5 1/2 years ago, but with each new life phase and as we grow more mature spiritually, emotionally, and in our relationship with each other, our love seems to only intensify. I can't imagine a better partner in life! 
• This is probably the most exciting one to me...some of my family members seem to be moving closer to God! This is especially true of my sister. She had a really rough time this past year and has suffered from depression for some time now. She asked for a Bible for Christmas and she recently told me that she's been reading it every night and even highlighting and taking notes/journaling! :) My heart couldn't be happier!! I pray that one day I can share my passion and love for the Lord with all my friends and family!
• I came very close to losing two family members this past year...both way too soon...and they are both alive now and seem like they are doing well. It can be easy to look at situations like that and see only the sadness and think of it as injustice. But I see that things are getting better and they are alive and I see that as a blessing! I hope that I can always see the blessings, even in the hard times. 

I could go on and on, but these are just a few. What are the major blessings in your life right now? I would love to hear!

~Christy~