The eve of my 30th birthday was…. eh. That’s the best way to describe it. Not necessarily sad, but definitely quiet and reflective. I was leaving my 20s uneasy about what was ahead and wondering if the whirlwind of time passed had produced any fruit.

Of course, looking back, I can now see the lessons, memories, friendships and life formative fruit that my 20s gifted me with. But stepping into 30 over the last 365 days has been a year of more intentionality, passion and purpose than I’ve ever experienced. I’ve lived unrestrained, free and I’ve felt confident in my calling. As I reflect on the goodness of God, here are a few lessons I learned during my 31st trip around the sun:

1. Celebrate life. God has designed this life to be lived fully and with joy. Take time to praise break for it ALL— big or small! Favorite celebrations: Portland 2018, RH Conference, RaKyah’s grad from LU, DC

2. Rest hard. As an enneagram two, this was a tough pill to swallow. But this year I learned to let some of my Martha go and to sit at the feet of Jesus like a Mary. I was able to serve Him most efficiently when I had rest for my mind, body and soul.

3. You ain’t getting any younger! (aka My body is a temple) I had a health scare and it reminded me that I must make it a priority to care for this one beautifully aging vessel (insert crying emojis) that God has entrusted to me. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17.

4. Never look away. Look up, look out and look people in the eyes because there is a world that needs Jesus and He has placed me in their path to be His hands and feet.

5. Pray. 30 taught me to run to God for answers. Not to my parents, not my best friend, not the internet, but to Him. He didn’t always answer how I wanted to or when I thought fit, but He always answered with peace.

6. Horseshoes are better than circles. Cliques aren’t cool. Be a friend to EVERYONE. Not just people who are trendy and fun but even people who are a little weird and maybe even irritating (LOL). You’ll realize we’re all a little weird and they’ll teach you a lot about yourself in the process.

7. My parents are people too. (Sorry Mom & Dad it took so long) They are OLD and so they are TIRED. Love and serve them well! Run errands for them, ask them about their life, cook dinner…. they’ve been cooking for you for far too long!

8. Ask. If you want to know the answer to something? Ask. You want to go on a date? Ask. If you want extra guac? Ask! (And everybody said AMENNNNN.) Often times, we can’t experience peace or breakthrough because we are left on the fence. Having the audacity to simply ask could be the catalyst for something monumental in your life.

9. Receive love. Most recently, I’ve learned that it’s okay to allow people to serve you and love you without giving anything in return! It’s a comforting feeling!

10. Be brave. This is a lesson that is to be continued….. and while I don’t feel worthy to expound just yet, i’ll be sure to write another post in the days ahead.

And now, here I am, on the eve of my 31st birthday, so thankful. Thankful for such a beautiful life full of family, love and service to Jesus. I just want more of what I already have.

Im so hopeful and expectant for whatever God brings my way this year and I can say with confidence that it will be good and it will be all God. He has set me on a rock, He is my guide and I will not be moved. The 20s ain’t got nothing on you Big 3-1! Let’s goooooo!!!!

“I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭16:8‬ ‭

Photo Cred: Kayla Shuler