But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” ~ Matthew 19:26 (ESV)
A brand new year…new goals, dreams, hopes for a year ahead. As Lori mentioned on her blog, she does not like to make new years ‘Resolutions’ — I don’t either. I break them within the first week. But I do have goals, dreams, and hopes for 2009…Allow me to share them with you:
- Spiritual Growth: Realizing in 2008 how much I like to be in control of things, having pride-issues (still), self doubt, feeling worthless…I believe that the study of Esther by Beth Moore is just perfect for me. Reading through Esther is the last part of 2008, I realized how much Esther relied on God’s timing. She didn’t rush anything but waited on His ‘green light’. I also plan on attending the Phoenix “Women of Faith Conference” in October 2009
- Marriage: With God’s help taking the focus off of my own needs. Continue to pray for our marriage. We have been married for almost 26 years, waves hit our marriage, but I trust God to continue to protect it.
- Motherhood: Keeping out of the affairs of our son. He is grown up — I need to acknowledge that (hard one for me – 😆 )
- Work: Let God handle the details. Keep my eyes focused on my own tasks to complete. Don’t worry about the work ethics of my co-workers.
- Writing/blogging: Take one day/blog at a time. Continue hosting Thankful Thursdays — as long as the interest is there. Sharing His Word, grace, love with a world to read/see/respond. With His help, I will find the time to do so. As I have mentioned often (but can’t say it enough), God truly has blessed me with a wonderful writing team at Laced with Grace. I hope to deepen the friendships I have made through the team blog this year. These women are an incredible encouragement to me personally.
- Photography/Scrapping: My dream for photography — get published or sell a photo or two (I know dreaming here 😉 ). One thing that I want to finish though this year is my Faithbook to have it printed. I hope that God uses my scrapping to make Him known through a different medium – digital layouts.
Maybe some of my goals, dreams and hopes for 2009 are a little lofty…but you know – all things a possible with God (thus Matthew 19:26 as my verse for the year 😛 )
If you would like to read more bloggers sharing their goals for 2009, stop by Lori’s blog “New Year’s Meditations”…
Be blessed today and as always…
Thank you so much for joining in. I enjoyed reading your list. I bet I will have to make the big adjustment of butting out of my sons lives to, you will have to help me when the time comes. ha.
I so hope I will be with you in Oct =)) Can not wait to see your Faithbook when you have completed it.
I look forward to growing in Christ with you in the new year! I am blessed by your friendship.
Lori’s last blog post..The Test of Mission Impossible
I love your post, Iris, and see some similarities in what I am looking forward to this and what you write, as well. I struggle with those control issues so and want to just turn them all over to God this year. I also need to get my attitude straight when it comes to work… worry about what I should be doing and how I do it and not so much about those around me.
Blessings to you in this new year!
Melanie’s last blog post..Looking Forward to 2009
Big goals! But with God, all things are possible.
Happy New Year!
Wonderful post Iris. I am struggling with some of the same issues. My son will turn 20 in a few months. I am really having a rough time letting go. He is in college and will be leaving me this year. I’m trying to get myself prepared. I will have to let God take care of it. Thanks for sharing your sweet heart!
I don’t always participate in Thanksful Thursdays for a lack of time… but I love to read them. And I love your blog.
Good luck with the 2009 goals!
Chel’s last blog post..See Ya Later, 2008
May the Lord grant you the desires of your heart and strengthen you in your faith. I think pride is a struggle for many of us. I know the Lord has shown me MANY times how prideful I can be. I find encouragement in knowing I am not alone in my struggle. Blessings to you in the coming year, Tammy
Tammy’s last blog post..New Year’s Meditations
I like having goals too, that is a better word for me than resolutions for some reason!
I have not done the Esther study but imagine it is another good one.
BP’s last blog post..As long as it is called Today
Such a beautiful list dear.
Denise’s last blog post..Thankful Thursday-Looking Back
I have joined in with this, Iris. I do hope you will continue to host Thankful Thursdays. 🙂
Joyce T.’s last blog post..New Year’s Meditations/Thankful Thursday
I’m right there with you needing to take one blog post at a time. I get so agitated when I think I’m “behind” but how can you be behind in something that is meant for you to enjoy. I hope to be able to join you for Thankful Thursdays more often this year.
Praying for you as you pursue your list. Please review Esther when you finish. We are considering it for our next study.
Miriam Pauline’s last blog post..New Year’s Meditations
I enjoy reading your goals. My older two sons are almost out of the nest, one is engaged, so I am wrestling with that now — when t speak, when to refrain.
Barbara H.’s last blog post..New Year’s Meditations
Sounds like some great goals that include God!
Hummie’s last blog post..The Amazing Digital Scrapbooking Race CHAT
Iris, I love your list. I particularly relate to the mothering your son one. My son is nearly 19 and about to start college and I am having to white-knuckle FORCE myself to stay (mostly) out of his business and let him handle his life. I’m sorry but after all these years of protecting him, cutting the apron strings isn’t all that easy!
I know how well setting a goal is a good thing. I set out last year to have my book published and by the end of the year it was. I pray that you will have that happen also. You are very talented and I believe it will happen for you.
It is hard, isn’t it – staying out of the affairs of our adult children? It has been so hard for me – a lesson that has seriously taken years to learn. Of course, until 4 years ago, he was my only child so I’m so used to focusing most of my energy on him anyway. But…I digress and rabbit trail. I don’t think your goals are too lofty – I think they’re amazing in wanting to use and grow the talents God has blessed you with. May He bless your endeavors and I hope we see you “sold” and “published” this year! Blessings.
Bonnie’s last blog post..A Soldier’s Mother
Hi Iris! Long time no hear 🙂 Hope you’re doing well! Happy New Year to you and your family 😀
chrixean / peachy
Peachy’s last blog post..My Left Hand Xmas Party 2008
I too am thankful for God’s word. thanks for sharing these scriptures today. Be blessed and have a wonderful TT
Willnette’s last blog post..Thankful Thursdays