Though I’ve been filled with much joy in walking with the Lord, the past month has also been a bit solemn for me and many people I know. Literally within the last few weeks I learned about 8 different people that passed away. Four of them from my church circle, two of them in my work circle, and two from extended family. I don’t know if all of them were saved or not, but my prayers go out to each of them and their families.

I’ve actually experienced death a lot since I was young. I remember going to many, many funerals starting from childhood. I’ve had friends and relatives that have died from car accidents, murders, drugs, diseases… you name it. One of my very best friends from high school died after she got hit by a drunk driver. My mom passed away from brain cancer 10 years ago in 2005.

I don’t want to get too much into those experiences in this post, but I just want to thank God right now for the days He has given me and for the purpose He’s given me in each of them. I also thank Him for YOU today, for all of the days He’s given you, and for the purpose He’s given you in each of them.

In one of my recent posts, I mentioned how tomorrow is not promised to us. What a reminder I got of that this past month. Not only have those 8 deaths of people I know reminded me of my humanity, but also the tragedies that have recently occurred around the world.

In light of all of this, I want to encourage each of you to reflect on your lives, and if you are really living out the life Your Creator intended you to live. I’m not talking about whether you are merely content or satisfied or even happy with your life. As children of God, our purpose runs so much deeper than being fine or happy with our circumstances.

Have you fulfilled all of the God-given dreams and aspirations He’s birthed in you? Do you feel like you’re living in the center of His will and in alignment with His Word? Are you displaying the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self control that we as believers should all have? Do you walk in the power of the Holy Spirit throughout your day? Do you have a relationship with Him that is so undeniable and steady, that you know with absolute certainty you will open your eyes in heaven once you close them on earth?

If your answer is “no” or “I’m not sure” to any of these, then ask yourself next what you’re going to do about it. Don’t accept to stay where you are. God has gifted you to do so much more, and will empower you with His very own Spirit if you are willing. If you truly strive to be all that He has made you to be according to His plans and purpose for your life, then you won’t fail, because God doesn’t fail!

I myself feel like there are many dreams and aspirations He’s given to me that I have not yet fulfilled. As I understand more and more what it means to live a life of obedience and worship, I am only now beginning to truly seek these out and ask God to make them reality. I would also love to pray for you if you feel like you need prayer and support in any of this.

Lastly, I’ll leave you with a song that has really been ministering to my spirit in light of all of the news. For those of you who are going through challenges and circumstances in life that are distracting you and pulling you away from the plans and purpose God has for you, just remember that you are not alone.

When we walk through the valley and sorrow surrounds us, He is there. He is walking with you every step of the way, no matter how difficult the road is; and He wants you to claim and fulfill all He has in store for you. He promises to never leave us nor forsake us, and that He will give us His peace and assurance through the storms.

Even in death, for those who claim Christ as their Lord and Savior, He will ALWAYS be with you. He goes before you, and is waiting for you to let go and follow Him in full surrender. We are not alone.

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. Lamentations 3:22

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

I Am Not Alone

As performed by Kari Jobe

When I walk through deep waters
I know that You will be with me
When I’m standing in the fire
I will not be overcome
Through the valley of the shadow
I will not fear

I am not alone
I am not alone
You will go before me
You will never leave me

In the midst of deep sorrow
I see Your light is breaking through
The dark of night will not overtake me
I am pressing into You
Lord You fight my ev’ry battle
And I will not fear

I am not alone
I am not alone
You will go before me
You will never leave me

You amaze me redeem me
You call me as Your own
You amaze me redeem me
You call me as Your own

I am not alone
I am not alone
You will go before me
You will never leave me

You’re my strength You’re my defender
You’re my refuge in the storm
Through these trials You’ve always been faithful
You bring healing to my soul

I am not alone
I am not alone
You will go before me
You will never leave me

I am not alone