According to His Purpose....

 I have been deliberating over whether or not I should post about what a wonderful year 2011 was. For the record, it served as a glorious year. I made it through my junior year of college, made some good friends, my best friend got married, enjoyed a great summer learning new things, and my first semester of senior year turned out great. I really could go on and on about 2011, but looking forward to 2012 is what is on my mind.
    So if anyone does not know, I am back at college for my last semester. The plan is graduate with a bachelors in elementary education. This means student teaching!!!! So originally I was totally excited about this....I mean this is what I have been waiting 4 years for. Don't get me wrong, I am still excited about it, but the reality is sinking in.
    I am going to be teaching 25 5th graders, coming up with the lesson plans, and putting them into action. Obviously I knew this day was coming, but now that it is here, I have become a tad anxious. The last few days of break felt like torture as I contemplated all that could go wrong. My biggest fear is disappointing all those who have invested in my time at college. I want to make them proud, so the pressure is on. I have also been dreading the financial situation as well.
    Today the Lord said, "Meghan, this is ridiculous, you need to stop this worry." I knew it was wrong to stress out like this all along, but we all need a kick in the pants sometimes. First of all, I paid my school bill today, and it went a lot better than I was expecting. I still have to be a good steward of my money, but there is no doubt in my mind I am blessed. Sure I have college debt to pay off after graduation, but it could be so much worse. God is great! As far as school stress goes, God gave me Romans 8:28.
 "And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purposes."
Wow! Here God is already providing my every need. The Lord has helped me through each and every semester. I have a great support system through family, friends, church and school. There is no doubt in my mind that this is my calling. Then why, oh why, should I worry? I may fail at times, and I may have days that are not easy. That does not mean I should walk around with a dark cloud hanging over my head. God has said it will work out for His glory because I have been called according to His purposes.
     This new perspective has cheered my spirits immensely. I am still nervous and have uncertainties, but once again I feel excited to set out on this brand new adventure. So farewell 2011, I shared many sweet memories, but now it is time to say welcome 2012....with the help of the Lord, I am ready for you and all you have to offer!