26.

Last week, I turned 26. With each birthday comes reflection, a plethera of thoughts. Today, the realization that I have been blessed. I have an amazing husband, two beautiful healthy kids, I have my "dream-job" and, most importantly I have a relationship with my Savior. I am LOVING living out God's plan for my life. Also, the realization that there is so much more growth needed in my life. I'm living for the LORD but, do my actions always reflect that? If the kids have rough days, do I always see those days as blessings? Am I sharing my faith with others? Do my words build others up?  So, I have lots of work ahead of me and, that starts today! This year I am going to focus on these 4 verses:

^29"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29

¹⁹ "My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰ for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."  James 1:19-20

⁶ "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

¹⁴ "But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear^[a]; do not be frightened.”^{[b] 15} But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" 1 Peter 3:14-15

These verses have been close to my heart for a very long time but, somehow they fall at the waistside when I get in a situation where I need them most. Not letting that happen will keep me busy this next year!