12 Questions to help you reflect upon 2016 & prepare for 2017
It's almost all over! What a year it's been, I honestly didn’t think it would pan out the way it has personally for Tayla & I but I've loved this year. I'd describe this year as the hardest yet best year of my life. There have been many stretching moments but also many moments to celebrate. But as I reflect upon the year that's been I am thankful for everything that's taken place as it's positioned me where I am now and ready for a great 2017.
The other night I sat with my brother in law and we discussed how we really have no reason to complain. We are so blessed to live in Australia, have clean water, live knowing we are safe & have a place to sleep at night when there are children dying of curable diseases, people without clean drinking water & live in a constant state of fear because of terror. So could I encourage us all to reflect upon 2016 with gratitude, even if it's been a difficult year?
Here are 12 questions to help you reflect upon 2016 & prepare for 2017. I'd love you to give your answers in the comments section below so that we can see one another's answers & be encouraged by each other. Invite your friends to take part in answering the questions & let's do it together.
1. What was your favorite moment?
There have been many but I'd say standing up the back of an auditorium seeing so many students passionately worship Jesus & waiting in His presence until 11pm at night at our youth camp this year. It was significant for me as I was so humbled to think that God would use such an ordinary man like me to be the leader of this incredible youth ministry. I'll never forget that night.
2. What was your most difficult situation?
Saying goodbye to Revolution & finishing up as the youth pastors at METRO. I loved my season at METRO & it wasn't an easy decision to make but I will always look back at my time there with fondness.
3. What was your goal for the year & did you reach it?
To read 25 books & I actually read 50 which I was proud of doing. I feel sharper & better equiped because of it.
4. Who had the biggest influence in your life this year?
There have been many influential people who have spoke into my life this year. A person who helped me in a defining moment this year was Brendan Kelly the pastor of METRO Toowoomba. He had so much wisdom & I couldn't be more grateful for the time that he spent listening to me & speaking into my life. He is a man of God who you can look to and seek to "imitate" just like the apostle Paul talks about in scripture.
5. What new friendship did you make and why is it important to you?
Tayla and I made many new great friendships this year but a couple that we met at church, called Jordan & Rachel have become like family to us, we love them heaps & I know they'll be life long friends.
6. What's the best book you read this year?
-Hands down Imperfect Pastor by Zack Eswine, it seriously changed my life.
7. Did you travel anywhere, favorite spot?
We traveled a bit this year but my favorite trip was going to Bali at the beginning of the year. It was the most relaxing trip, filled with swimming eating, reading & repeating.
8. Best Netflix series you watched?
This is tricky! But I'd have to give it to Brooklyn 99 - hilarious.
8. Biggest risk you took?
Finishing up as the youth pastors at METRO & deciding to head to the USA in 2017.
9. Biggest lesson learned?
That humility opens doors. I think I've subconsciously believed this for a long time but it chrystalised this year for me. I've met some incredible people & had some amazing opportunities that I don't deserve. I just want to keep boasting in Jesus.
10. Quote that inspired you?
"Men should pray for thick skin & a tender heart" I love that thought. Be strong yet gentle.
11. What are you most excited for in 2017?
Without a doubt our adventure for to America & serving at Newspring Church. There are also a number of projects I'm working on quietly that I hope to release next year.
12. What's your goal for 2017?
Launch a podcast, publish a book & get my body into the best physical condition I've ever had it in & I actually mean it. I also want to start waking up at 5am every weekday.
Can I leave you with this thought? Don't just view 2017 as another yet, don't set New Years resolution because it's what you do at this time of year. But rather pray for God to do something incredible in your life, that he would use you in a powerful way for His glory & believe that many would come to know Him in 2017. Stay focused on the main thing and that is seeing people come to know Jesus Christ as their lord & savior & follow Him.
I pray Gods best over your life in 2017 & I hope you enjoy the celebrations.