In scripture it says, in Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." The Lord has faithfully proven this to me on more than one occasion over the last two years. I've dealt with abuse, depression, divorce, unemployment, financial crises, moral missteps, death, and numerous family issues. Some might look at that list and wonder how anyone could see any goodness in that. Some might look at that list and pity me. It's true that I have experienced enough heartache to make even Annie stop singing about tomorrow, but I have also experienced so much love and personal growth. I am so filled with joy when I think of all the goodness I've experienced in the midst of these trials that my heart is bursting at the seams. I want to shout from the rooftops how great my God is and how much I love Him! I think I'm beginning to understand why David wrote the Psalms.
There are so many more blessings I could list, but I'll end with my greatest and that's this: through everything, I have learned to lean on God and trust him fully with my life. He has faithfully proven to me over and over that he is good, that he loves me (and you too, more than we can fathom), that he will never leave me, that he will never fail me. It's not always easy to lay my burdens at his feet, but when I finally do my Savior comes through in ways I never imagined possible. My greatest blessing is knowing my Heavenly Father, the personal relationship I have with him, and being able to share that with you.
I hope your holiday is filled with warmth, love and fellowship with those dearest to you.