25 Lessons from 25 Years
I turned 25 recently. I have mixed feelings.
My birthday tends to bring me a sense of sadness. I believe it is because I’ve never quite been happy with who I am or where I am in life as I celebrate another year around the sun. I’m learning to be less hard on myself and more hopeful about God’s plan for my life, both of which are helping me live with more joy. I am grateful for the life God has blessed me with and the people He has surrounded me with. The past 12 months have been transformative for me, consisting of many hills but also valleys.
I am grateful for the wisdom I’ve gained as I’ve grown deeper into adulthood. I thought it’d be nice to share some of my reflections. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday soon or feeling reflective about your own life, I’d encourage you to write a list of lessons you’ve learned on your journey. It can be so encouraging to think back on the work God has done in you. No matter where you are in life, God has a plan and a purpose for you. Your life isn’t over until God says so. Live with Christ at the center, with fullness and joy and hope.
Here are some lessons I’ve learned over the past 25 years:
Enjoy the little things. Joy isn’t reserved solely for the major milestones, but also for the simple moments in between.
Life can often feel daunting. Taking things one step at a time can help you make progress, grow through transitions, and embrace the life God has called you to.
You cannot do life alone. Depend on God in all things. Invite the Holy Spirit into your weakness.
Imperfect pursuits are still worthwhile. You don’t have to have the entire plan mapped out to get started on a goal or dream.
Healing takes time. God works in the midst of our pain and brings purpose from it.
Forgiveness is the only way forward. Forgive yourself and forgive others.
Find something to be grateful for every day. Gratitude helps you savor life and remain hopeful in difficult seasons.
Talk to God all the time and about everything. You don’t have to put on a show for God. Let Him into your innermost thoughts, feelings, and disappointments. You can be yourself with God.
Let go of pride. Pride gets in the way of trying new things, growing, and forgiving.
Seek God’s approval, not the approval of others. You don’t have to strive to be accepted by others. If you belong to Christ, you are eternally accepted.
Make your phone your tool, not your world. Get into nature if you can. Read lots of good books. Spend real time with others.
See trials as growth opportunities, not punishments from God. Find the purpose in the pain.
Your life isn’t over just because your plans failed. When we come to the end of ourselves is when we begin to go deeper with God. His plans are better than our own (even when it’s hard to accept).
Prayer truly works. Pray for yourself but also prioritize consistently praying for others.
Attending a good church leads to spiritual growth. Gathering with other believers is essential.
Let go of comparison. Life isn’t a race or a competition. Comparison leads to shame and bitterness, while trusting God’s individual plan for your life leads to hope and peace. God knows what you need and when you need it.
Be open to redirection. Walk by faith.
Use your gifts to the glory of God. Doing so gives you a well of satisfaction and purpose. It ushers in the supernatural. Remember to rely on God’s grace in the process, not your own strength.
Your day job and your calling may not be the same thing.
Just because God has called you to something doesn’t mean the path will be easy or plain. God’s grace is sufficient and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. If you ask, He will equip you.
Seasons don’t last forever. The clouds will part.
You’re not behind when you’re living in God’s timing.
Seek to learn about God, yourself, and other people.
Spend dedicated time with God every day. It is transformative.
Surrendering your life to Jesus is the best decision you can ever make.