As this year slowly comes to a close, it's nice to be able to sit back and reflect on what a year it has been. This year has brought many laughs, some tears, and lots of change, but one of the most important things I've learned is that we're most at peace with God when we let go and put all of our trust in Him.

I actually like it better that way, though. There's so much freedom in giving everything to God and knowing that He is who He says He is. We don't have to have everything figured out; we just need to seek God in everything that we do, and He will show us His plan for our lives. One of my favorite quotes is by Thomas Brooks and it says, "We trust as we love, and where we love. If we love Christ much, surely we shall trust Him much." If we love Christ, surely we can trust Him!

During these past few weeks, I have watched God open so many new doors for me and provide answers for the exact things I have been praying for. He has given me new friendships filled with people who strengthen my walk with Christ daily. He has given me amazing opportunities to help me invest in my passion. He has revealed to me His calling on my life for His Kingdom. He has given me clarity as I watch His will be done. It's amazing to be able to actually see Him and His work through what is happening in my life.

With open doors, though, comes closed ones too. There were things I have wanted and thought I needed that I so desperately prayed for and didn't get. At the time, I didn't understand. Why wouldn't He give me the desires of my heart if He is for me? But once again, my God reminds me that everything He does is for my good and for His glory as I watched His marvelous plan unfold. He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-loving, and my heart finds rest in the fact that my God is forever faithful. Why spend all of my time worrying when I know that God keeps His promises?

Looking back, I see how far I have truly come during this year and all I see is blessing upon blessing, and I can't help but be thankful. Life is not perfect, and I don't expect it to be. But when we work towards a lifestyle of making the Lord our refuge, we begin to live in the peace of God. So here's to a life filled with wholeheartedly seeking God and being at peace with Him. Because I may not always be in control, but I am deeply loved by the one who is.

"And those who know Your name put their trust in You, for You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You."

Psalms 9:10