I like what the definition of
thrive in the Merriam-Webster dictionary. It means to progress toward or
realize a goal despite or because of circumstances.
Why thrive?
2016 has been a year where I came
to know myself better as a person and as a young professional. This year was also
a year of answered prayers. Having said that, with God’s guidance, I felt that
I need to stay longer in Abu Dhabi for a purpose. The purpose is not that clear
at the moment, but as I look forward for 2017, I pray that God will be the one
who will make all things clear.
In spite of some bumps along the
road, I was able to pick up the pieces, and bounce back where I am right now, with
the help of God and some people I’ll always be grateful for,
What have I learned from this year?
Let go, and Let God.
There are few moment during this
2016 wherein I have to make necessary decisions in my career. I was on the
verge of giving up and asking my manager to really sign another resignation
letter. Yes! I attempted once before and tried it again this year. Then when I
had a vacation this August, I decided to make it a purpose-driven trip (see my
other blog post entitled “A Purpose Driven Trip”.) I was able to visit where my
desire to glorify and honor God with the talents He gave me and met a couple of
people who was with me on the first few years of my journey of faith with
Christ.
What I am grateful for this year?
There are many things that I am
grateful for. One of which was the people whom God placed in my life when I
started to be connected to the church here in Abu Dhabi. They encouraged me
when moments turned out the way I wanted me and when there are times that I am
not my usual self. They also challenged me to be my best when serving, honoring
and glorifying the Author of my life.
The efforts of these people,
whether small or big, helped me to be the person who I am now. I believe it is
not an accident that our paths crossed each other and I know that God placed
you in my life for a reason, for a specific purpose.
With these people, the picture of
what my purpose is becoming clearer.
What I am looking forward to 2017?
I am looking forward on how God’s
plan for me and through me will unfold this year. I believe, by faith that
these plans will unfold in His perfect time.
For I know the plans I have for
you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29:11 | NIV
Many are the plans in a person’s
heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21 | NIV
As we look forward to the coming
year, let me share to you one thing that makes me excited for 2017. Throughout
2016, many things happened, both good and bad. I took all the lessons learned
from these experiences and will use it to be a better person, to be a better
man after God’s own heart.
Circumstances will always be there
and cannot be avoided. My prayer for whoever is reading this blog will be
excited as I am for 2017 in spite of what lies ahead, that we will thrive and
welcome the year with full of hope and confidence with the power of God. Always
stay humble no matter what, and blessings will follow.
