Can you believe 2011 has come to an end? So, how has your year been? If you are like me, then you probably enjoy taking a few moments at the end of the year to reflect on what has been and contemplate on what will be. In the final hours of this year, I hope you will do exactly that. I’ve written here a few things I learned (better) in 2011 and a few I’ll try and learn (even better) in 2012.
1. God will use you to do really amazing things even though the things may not be defined amazing by the world’s standard.
2. Family is family even when we all don’t get along. (This is a big one. I hear from countless teens who have family struggles. Remember, your family is your family no matter what. Work to be the peacemaker and grace giver in your family in ‘12. You may not enjoy every moment of family life and every person in your family. But, whether spoken or not, your family is counting on you to be there for them.)
3. There will always be someone in your life who needs you to take the time to ask, ” How are you doing?”
4. The Kardashian’s are crazy.
5. goTandem is an amazing resource to get me into the Word everyday. If you aren’t doing it, begin the new year committed to getting some God time. Go to: jeffreydean.gotandem.com and subscribe now to begin 2012 growing spiritually in daily bible engagement.
6. Saying something nice to someone makes me feel just as good saying it as they feel hearing it.
7. Justin Bieber isn’t going anyway anytime soon.
8. Friendships take work.
9. The death of Steve Jobs a few months ago reminded me that life is but a blur. Worldly success, no matter how financially beneficial, won’t matter in the after-life. The only thing that will matter then is that you chose to surrender your life to Jesus. If you aren’t sure that you have done so and don’t know Jesus as Savior, you can be sure right now. The bible says, “Whoever calls on the Lord will be saved.” You can be saved now by praying, “God, I believe in you. I believe your Son Jesus gave His life for me and I now give you my life. Save me and start me over!”
10. Edward and Bella waiting is a great lesson for anyone not married…and a biblical one too!
11. One day without your cell phone really isn’t the end of the world. Power off every now and then in the new year and enjoy the silence. Go to dinner with your family or a friend and actually talk without looking down at your display every time you feel a vibrate.
