Living through 2020 was like nothing I’ve experienced in my lifetime—sickness, unrest, division, economic downturn—it’s enough to make even the most optimistic of us feel down.

But I’m resolved that I’m not going to let the hard, unexpected circumstances of this past year take away from my chance to praise God for all the good He’s done.

Here are some of the beautiful, wonderful things God has orchestrated throughout 2020. Sometimes all it takes to turn our hearts to the Lord in praise is a little change in perspective. Here’s my perspective shift: after all, hindsight is 20/20.

Happily Transplanted

2020 kicked off with us celebrating half a year in our new church, home, and community. Though moving in the summer of 2019 was a monumental task, (even more monumental than I realized it would be!) we’ve been so thankful for all God has done for us in our new location. We know we’re just where He wants us, and that’s just where we want to be.

An Open Door

The Lord gave me the chance to learn, grow, and serve by apprenticing with author and speaker Melissa Spoelstra throughout the year. I helped with her graphic design and social media—and her publisher even used one of my designs as the inspiration for her new Bible study’s book cover and set design!

Our whole family enjoyed travelling to Nashville in early March so that I could assist and observe Melissa with the studio tapings of her Names of God teachings.

We arrived the morning tornadoes had just ripped through the city. My husband John seized the chance to teach the children to serve the community by signing them all up to assist with cleanup.

An Unexpected Opportunity

When everything shut down, women’s ministries and Bible studies moved online—including Melissa Spoelstra’s. While I was helping with her online ministry, the Lord gave me a nudge.

Why not take advantage of the down time to do some online ministry with the women of my home congregation?

I had a Bible study manuscript that had been collecting dust in the flurry of our family’s move. Now was the time to polish it and make it available to more women—it was time to publish.

I dove headfirst into the adventure of editing, formatting, and filming teachings to accompany the Significant Bible Study—and loved every minute of it! What a joy to dig deep into God’s word and prepare to share with other women.

I led the study online with my home congregation during the summer, and have seen other groups purchase and use the study ever since. God took my reluctance to become a published writer and multiplied my opportunities beyond my expectations! He is so good.

New Life

Even amidst news of sickness and death (and our own bout with Covid-19), our family was overjoyed to hear the news of new life growing within. In just a few months, a new family member will be added. Truly a joy in the midst of life’s challenges!

What about you? Can you look back on 2020, and with hindsight see God’s fingerprints on your life, despite your difficulties? I’d love to hear your praises in the comments! What good was God working in your life this past year?

Tags: covid-19, pregnancy, unexpected, writing