Rhea, left, and Shannon, right, are expecting amazing moves of God in 2022,,,
As we reflect on 2021 it can bring back all sorts of memories, feelings, experiences and surprises, good and bad. Whatever 2021 has brought you, it’s a comfort to know that God is still with us, still on the throne and goes ahead of us in 2022. Rhea, Abigail and Shannon have all gone through challenges and changes in their lives this year and have taken a moment to reflect on this with us.
Rhea Talbot (Manchester)
2021 has been a year of uncertainty and rebuilding. For me personally, it’s been a year to be strong and courageous. There has been a lot to fear, but God has been constantly and gently reminding me that we don’t see what’s on the other side. He is continually fighting on our behalf.
As we get ready to begin this new year of 2022, I look forward to seeing the things God has prepared for us. I think there are going to be new seasons and opportunities for many to rebuild what was taken. As we enter yet another uncertain year, I encourage you to be strong and courageous like Joshua and Moses. Don’t fear what might happen but trust in the words that God has said: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified… for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you,” (Deut 31:6-8).
Abigail Aston (Dudley, West Midlands)
2021 has definitely been a mixed bag of emotions for me. Being in a pandemic and going through health challenges within my family has caused a lot of confusion and anxiety.
Then this was the year that I planned my wedding. I got married and started to build a new home with my husband. These brought me a lot of excitement and joy. It’s been a year to carefully navigate, but also a year to reflect on what truly matters in life.
God has taught me you can still have joy and peace with all that life can bring – you just have to let go and allow God to be the author. I’m excited for 2022, to see what God has in store, as I know his plans are always worked out for good.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose,” (Romans 8:28).
Shannon Williams (Birmingham)
For me, stepping into 2021 was full of fear and uncertainty about what was to come after the ordeal that was 2020. But what God had in store was the complete opposite.
My 2021 can be summed up as nothing short of a season of change – new home, new job and new church. New routines and new beginnings. Change would normally produce anxiety, but this new season was full of peace.
One of my favourite verses is Psalm 4:8: “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
I am so thankful for all God has done in my life in 2021, for all the scary new beginnings and the new season which he is leading me in. For 2022, we can be expectant that God is only going to multiply what he has already started.
From Direction Magazine issue 232
