18 Things I learned at 18
1. Loving God changes the way you love others.
Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another as Christ God forgave you.” The more time we spend in the Word and in prayer with God, the more He will reveal himself to us.
2. You will never influence the world by trying to be just like it
If we all looked and acted the same, the world would be a boring place. Be confident in the way God created you!
3. Live in the moment
It’s an overused saying but a true one! Don’t wait to find your happiness in the next thing (vacations, college, relationships). Find joy in the now & you’ll walk through life with a whole new perspective.
4. Trust the wait, Embrace the uncertainty
Surrender all to Him. Grow closer to God in seasons of emptiness. The best things will happen when you least expect them. He works in a million ways we can’t see, if it’s in His will He will reveal it to us
5. Take time everyday to nourish your mind, body, and soul.
We live in such a busy, fast paced society. Make self care a priority everyday even if it’s just a few minutes. Starting my day in the Word and ending my day in quiet time with the Lord is a constant reminder of His graciousness.
6. Be aware of where you place your identity
No relationship, career, or thing will ever fully satisfy you. Place your identity in Christ alone. We have access to a God of grace and everlasting love, all you have to do is accept Him into your life.
7. “Love thy neighbor as thyself” Matthew 22:40
In order to love others as yourself you need to learn to love yourself. Would you be friends with yourself? Act in a manner where others will see God through you.
8. “Anyone can find the dirt in someone. Be the one who finds the gold” (Proverbs 11:27)
Find the beauty in the little things and make the best of every situation. View people the way God views them – with a loving and merciful heart.
9. Surround yourself with people who challenge and encourage you
Community can be the best or worst thing to deepen your faith. It’s important to have a close group of friends who will keep each other accountably and pick each other up when you’re down.
10. Comparison is the thief of joy
We were all created beautifully in His image. Just because you don’t look like someone else or have the same gifts as them doesn’t mean you are less worthy.
11. His plan will ALWAYS be better than ours
Stop trying to move through life on your own time and trust that He will provide for all your needs.
12. “People look at the outward appearance but the Lord looks at your inner thoughts and intentions” 1 Samuel 16:7
Nobody but God will ever fully know you. He hears it all-your cries out to Him and your thanks to Him!
13. “We are called to be bold” Joshua 1:9
Use your voice! Pray that God will give you the words and platform to reach others.
14. “Ask and it shall be given to you. Knock and the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7)
Our God is giving and loving and hears all your prayers. He knows what we need, so trust His timing. If it’s in His will, than he WILL provide it… if He doesn’t than it wasn’t meant to be.
15. Nobody will know how you feel unless you tell them
Our life on earth is short, don’t hold back. Live each day as if it’s your last.
16. He loves us at our darkest (Romans 5:8)
People and places will come and go but God is forever! He never runs out of grace or forgiveness.
17. Keep an open mind & open heart
Always be open to new ideas! Don’t live your life to please others, create your own path & do what brings you joy.
18. God is greater than the highs and lows
There will be bad days, good days, and even better days! Stay true to who you are through them all and glorify the one who blesses you!
I thought this would be a fun blog since today is my 18th birthday! Thank you SO much for all the continuous support, it means the world to me <3 I’m currently 50% funded (I still need $8,000). I would love for you to join me in support of this Kingdom journey- please be praying for my team and I as we leave for Georgia & eventually overseas. If you feel led to donate you can do so right here on my blog or through venmo @becca-engstrom-1
