I’m sure everyone at some point, at the end of the year or beginning of the new year, will reflect on the past. In my quiet time this morning I did the same. I was intentional in my thoughts. What did I personally struggle with this past year. How did others hurt me that I was still carrying? How did I hurt someone intentionally or unintentionally? Good questions that needed reflection so I could be honest with myself. I don’t want to carry old into the new. New wine for the new wine skin!! God has been working junk out of me for many, many years. It’s been a very difficult process. It was painful to say the least. I was carrying so much junk that I didn’t realize I had. I often say this…” it was like God took me to every belief I had in his word and asked “Do you really believe me?”” It felty like I was tested at every turn. My faith was put to the test I passed some of those with flying colors and others …not so much! I’ve been through the most difficult time I’ve ever been through in my life! I can honestly say it was worth it.

My faith is real now. It’s personal to me. Its mine all mine. I had to do the work. I had to let go and let God do what He wanted to do in me. I had to pray, study, read and listen and do what He said. I spent a lot of time on my face in tears. Like I said painful. I would not trade any of it. I feel free. The things that had a hold me don’t any more. Still not perfect, never will be.

So, In saying all that.. I reflected, prayed and asked God what do I need to say goodbye to in 2018. Hear are some of the things… this list is not exhaustive by any means. Some of these were done to me and some I did to others…

goodbye hurt feelings, feeling of inadequacy and feelings of being unloveable.

goodbye grudges, offenses and lack of understanding.

goodbye fear of man, brokenness and emptiness.

goodbye of ugly comments, name calling and ugly thoughts.

goodbye chains, bondages and LIES of the enemy!!

Hello 2019! I look forward to what you have for me!!!

PaPa God, I ask, for the person who is reading this right now hear the chains being broken off of them right now in Jesus name! I pray they feel lighter than they ever have. Drop into their spirit the plans you have for them and give them the courage to move forward and not to settle for anything less!!

Living My Beautifully Messy Life

Rachell Reed