God’s Plan: Praise and Gratitude in 2023

God’s plan for you is always for good. Many plans are in a man’s mind, but it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand (be carried out) – Proverbs 19:21. It’s New Year’s Eve 2023, and I want to give praise, thanks, and gratitude to my God for how He blessed me in 2023. I accomplished all of my goals and some additional goals this year; however, I did not do it alone. God was with me every step of the way. There were challenges, but He was my shield, my rock, and my ever-present help in times of trouble.

Here is a list of my major accomplishments in 2023: 

1. Finished my Doctorate in Education with a 4.0 GPA
2. Honored as the Outstanding Doctoral Student in the School of Education
3. Became a Certified Life Coach  [Certification in (1) Transformation coaching and (2) Purpose coaching]
4. Started a Life Coaching Business
5. Started a Digital Marketing Business
6. Wrote and published two books (working on a third book)
7. Secured two speaking engagements
8. Taught a graduate class on Multicultural Education

With God on my side, there was nothing that could stop me from fulfilling God’s plan for my life. I was totally reliant on Him. I give Him thanks for taking care of me. His yoke was easy, and His burden was light (Matthew 11:28-30).

God and I have been meeting every morning at 6:00 am to discuss His plans for me for next year. I do not have all of the details yet, but what I know is that it’s going to be another exciting year. I keep God’s Word at the center of everything I do. I gave up trying to control the circumstances in my life. The following scriptures guided me and kept me grounded:

Jeremiah 29:11 –  For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (God already has a plan)

Proverbs 31:25 – Strength and dignity are her clothing, and her position is strong and secure;
And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family are prepared]. (My future is secure)

Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed (intimidated), for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (God is with me wherever I go!)

Philippians 4:19 – And my God will liberally supply (fill until full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (God supplies everything I need)

Give thanks to God for all He helped you accomplish in 2023 and what He will help you accomplish in the new year. God is Good, and His mercies endure forever (Psalm 100:5). Selah! See you in 2024! Happy New Year!