“Courage is only the accumulation of small steps.”

As I look back on 2022 it truly was a year of great risk, pain and growth. It really was a rippling away of a lot of my earthly anchors. But I knew that stepping out in faith and trusting God even though it felt like I was trying to see through a fogged up window—would be worth it.

I’ll be honest, I am not a person who is big on risk. So when I read this quote below I was encouraged;

“Courage is only the accumulation of small steps.” Gyorgy Konrad

I’m not naturally that courageous of a person. I don’t typically raise my hand first…but I have realized as I looked back on 2022 (and really my life as a whole) that I have made COURAGEOUS choices just with small steps. I may have taken the ladder into the pool instead of been the cannon baller…but that’s OK!

Not everyone needs to get drenched…and I still made it into the pool.

I think we sometimes put these unknown pressures on our lives because of timing or expectations that cause us to doubt ourselves in ways we really never should.

And so this year, in 2023 —I’m setting out to build upon these courageous steps I’ve been making. To nurture those roots that have been growing. I’m gonna choose to uncover that small ember that is still burning in me, under a pile of ashes and fan it into flame. And let’s just see what God might do.

I’m choosing to look at following Jesus as my pursuit and the steps that bring me closer to trusting Him are worth it…even if they are with teary eyes and sweaty armpits.

Psalm 16:5-11 -I’m clinging to this year and declaring with my life.

“The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup;
    you hold my lot.
 The lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
    indeed, I have a beautiful inheritance.

 I bless the Lord who gives me counsel;
    in the night also my heart instructs me.
 I have set the Lord always before me;
    because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.

 Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
    my flesh also dwells secure.
 For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
    or let your holy one see corruption.

You make known to me the path of life;
    in your presence there is fullness of joy;
    at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

So as I wave goodbye to 2022 , I will choose to see the good that came from being COURAGEOUS. And realize that on the journey God was just up ahead a little, guiding me all along with His voice.