Beginning.

These upcoming weeks hold so many new beginnings, and quite honestly, my heart is in question as to whether or not I'm ready for all this. Doubt has definitely been a faithful friend recently. Always by my side. 

But as my doubtful self was sitting here trying to figure out what to write, I called upon life’s manual, and "coincidentally" opened it to Philippians 3. A common chapter in the Bible to many, but somehow it never loses it's refreshing encouragement. 

In this book, Paul expresses his affection for the believers in Philippi specifically, but I believe these God-breathed words were meant for all. Including you and I. 

This morning, God spoke to my worried heart so clearly in Philippians 3:13..."Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Whoa.

One word comes to mind when reading that. Joy. Jesus is the source of abundant lives filled with joy. Now, I understand that one's definition of "abundant" may be different than another's, but of one thing I'm sure. Joy is not seen. Joy is felt. Not only by the individual, but by others. It's infectious, and almost tactile in a sense. True joy comes from the Spirit. 

I should no longer feel doubtful and worrisome about not living up to my future and all of these worldly expectations, but rather, be joyful. Hopeful. Press on, and faithfully run the race that Jesus has set before me. The ultimate prize is not here on this earth, but waiting for me once this life is over. It is my hope to relentlessly pursue the knowledge and love of the Lord.  I implore you to join me. 

Be blessed, friends. Thank you for reading.

Hopeful