Farewell 2017

Well, here we are at the end of another year and as we farewell 2017, I want to extend my gratitude to each of you who meet me here week after week at My Messy Desk, both virtually and in real life! I have learned so much researching, praying, and writing on the topics we tackle together.

A Look Back

This year my word was INVEST. And I have been called on to do just that in so many ways. But most of all it became a cry for intentionality as I made decisions about how I used my time, talents, and treasures this year. It also sparked a working book title. And not least of all, the last lesson I learned about investing was accepting another’s investment in me. God showed me how accepting help not only humbles my heart and strengthens my community, but also ensures He receives all the glory!

I consider my writing an investment in the kingdom of heaven, not only for my own spiritual growth and sanctification, but also for all those who join me here. We’ve covered some serious spiritual ground this year, too. dreaming, our worth as women, how to move toward the mess with the love of Christ, and marriage. With that in mind, I’d like to share with you the 10 posts that most resonated with you all this year!

Farewell 2017 Top Ten

10. Word Nerd Wednesday – Asceticism (by one of the word-nerdiest gals I know, Katie Chew)

9. A Woman’s Worth: More than My Messes

8. Dreaming Doesn’t Mean Discontent (by the incredible Kristine Brown of More Than Yourself)

7. Daring to Dream

6. Death of a Dream (a guest post by my dear friend Grey Zachary)

5. When Marriage Gets Messy – Adultery (Karin’s powerful story of God’s redemption in her marriage)

4. When Dreams are Delayed

3. A Woman’s Worth – More Than What’s in the Mirror

2. When Marriage Get’s Messy – Unmet Expectations

And the most read post of 2017 was Laying Down the Dream (which includes a free coloring sheet from the talented Jana Kennedy-Spicer of Sweet to the Soul Ministries)

Looking Ahead to 2018

We spent the last couple of weeks talking about how looking back can help us move forward and acknowledging our accomplishments gives us the motivation to get moving in the right direction. So I want to know from you? How have you grown in 2017? What changes in your life surprised you the most? What growth are you hoping to achieve in 2018? Which of your memories will you call on to give you the motivation you need to continue becoming more like the masterpiece God created you to be in 2018? I invite you to spend some time seeking God’s direction for the year ahead!

2017 Reader Survey

Help me to better serve you. I don’t believe in coincidences, so if you’re here today, even if it’s your first time visiting, I want you to take my reader survey. Let your voice be heard and help me plan content to best support your 2018 goals! Take the 10 question survey HERE.

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Linking Up With

For more encouragement please join the discussions on these fabulous blog link ups – Suzanne Eller, Faith On Fire, Susan B. Mead, Faith Filled Friday, Grace and Truth, Faith and Fellowship Friday, Soul Survival, Rah Rah Link Up, Tell His Story, Sitting Among Friends, Testimony Tuesday, Planting Roots, and Fresh Market Friday, Salt and Light.