Treasures of the Heart: Reflecting on the Year

As you reflect on the experiences and events of the past year, what is it you remember most? What successes, milestones, or memories do you treasure?

What you hold dear from this past year may be something material, but more than likely what endures in your heart and mind will be much more meaningful and valuable than mere possessions. The best blessings in life generally have nothing to do with our wealth or worldly goods.

Perhaps there were places you went that impacted your life in an amazing way—locations you visited that were especially beautiful or where you shared wonderful memories with family and friends.

Or maybe there were special moments you will always treasure—a wedding, the birth of a child, a graduation, a particular accomplishment, or some other unique occasion with loved ones that transformed your life. Likewise, as you look back at the past year, I am sure there were quiet times you experienced with God in prayer and worship that you will recall with joy.

The Father loves to fill our lives with these special glimpses of His care, power, and presence. He does this so we will have the enduring treasures of hope and faith to cling to when difficulties arise. We can look back at these times and recall how faithful God was to bless, lead, and teach us. You can find this principle in the life of King David, who wrote, “Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of Your majesty and on Your wonderful works, I will meditate” (Ps. 145:3-5).

What kinds of treasures does the Lord send us? What awesome acts of God should we always keep in mind? For me personally, the most meaningful of the Father’s works are those moments that deepen my relationship with Him, the promises He gives me in Scripture, and the trials He sends me that help me follow Him more faithfully.

Is the same true for you? As you review 2010, here are some specific treasures you can record that will encourage you whenever you feel downcast or encounter trials that require faith and courage.

First, write down the special times you grew in your intimate relationship with the Lord, learning more about His loving character or the ways He works in your life. These may come as a result of your quiet timesin Bible study and prayer, but there are countless other ways the Father may reveal Himself to you as well.

I had the privilege of traveling this year, and as I looked at a particularly stunning landscape, I was overwhelmed by a sense of the Father’s awesome presence and power. I thought, God, please don’t let me ever forget this. You created all of this. I cannot begin to imagine the absolutely wonderful things You can doin the lives of Your children. It was an extraordinary moment I always want to remember.

Second, make a note of Scripture verses that the Lord used in a powerful way to encourage and teach you. If you have been seeking God, He more than likely has been speaking to you through His Word, and there are probably some very special passages that you have come to treasure.

One of the verses I always hold on to is Proverbs 3:5–6, which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Anytime I need to make a decision or experience a burden that I cannot fully comprehend, I recall that verse. Practicing the principle in this passage always keeps me walking in the right direction.

Third, record the ways the Father worked through the trials you experienced to teach you to follow Him more closely. This past year was very challenging for many people spiritually, emotionally, and even economically. For some, the difficulties helped them break free from sinful habits. For others, their faith grew greatly because they had no other choice than to rely on God—and He proved absolutely faithful.

Personally, the Lord blessed me through you. I was inspired by how you and our In Touch family pulled together in these trying times—praying for our nation and supporting the ministry in such a steadfast and unwavering manner. You are an absolute treasure to me, and I praise God for all He has taught me through your partnership in the gospel (Phil. 1:3-6).

So what did the Father teach you in these last 12 months? How did you grow in your relationship with Him? Are there verses of Scripture you’ve come to treasure? What trials or difficulties did He carry you through or is He currently helping you overcome?

If you’ve taken the time to write down some of these priceless blessings of God’s provision, put your list in a place where you can easily find it. Then, whenever you feel discouraged about the future, read what you’ve written. Recall the awesome things He has done in your life. Meditate on them and treasure them in your heart. The Father has worked powerfully in the past, and He is sure to help you again. Trust Him and learn from all He showed you this year, because that will help make next year even more joyful and meaningful.

Originally from Dr. Stanley’s monthly From the Pastor’s Heart letter. Receive the From the Pastor’s Heart letter monthly by subscribing here.

Copyright 2012 In Touch Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved. www.intouch.org. In Touch grants permission to print for personal use only.

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