The end of the year is an ideal time to reflect, give thanks, and prepare. My theme for 2022 was "God will finish what He started." There were some things I'd been working on, but have not come to fruition or been completed.

As I reminisce, this was one of the most emotionally exhausting and overwhelming years to date. My workloads were heavy. I was tested more than ever. The lows seemed to outweigh the highs. Yet, I didn’t break. Therefore, I’m choosing to focus on how God has kept and blessed me.

Goal #1 Recap

My primary goal for this year was to become a homeowner. This is something I’ve been planning and believing God for since 2018. Although I'm not *exactly* a homeowner, I MOVED into a brand new house!! It was such an unexpected swift of events that led to a great manifestation of God’s favor. The transition hasn’t been easy, but I've been embracing my newfound peace and space in a serene environment as I settle in.

Housewarming Wishlist:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/20K0P4ZF02F57?ref_=wl_share

“My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.” -Isaiah 32:18

“And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people will not oppress them anymore, as they did at the beginning and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies. The LORD declares to you that the LORD himself will establish a house for you:” -2 Samuel 7:10-11

Goal #2 Recap

My second goal was to strengthen my administrative skills. This was my most prosperous one. I met my career goal of receiving a promotion just two months after passing the qualifying exam. Throughout the year, I also received opportunities for other positions but ultimately declined due to disinterest or restrictions of my probationary period.

This past year of servanthood in ministry has been the most impactful of the five years I’ve been serving. In February, I joined the pastoral care team. What I initially thought was going to be something on an as needed basis, turned out to be so much more. This role has refined me in unexpected ways. One of them is provoking me to conquer my rejection issues. I believe this was strategic because I made the brave decision to address this a couple of months prior. Some instances urged me to surmount my traumatized nature and carry out what I was trained to do even though I felt uncomfortable or nervous. After all, God did not give us the spirit of timidity. Additionally, I’ve worked on various tasks throughout the year, and my greatest privilege was working on a cover feature for an international magazine. This assignment challenged my project management skills of effective communication since the editor was located in another country and timezone, collaboration with multiple team members, and scheduling which ensured timely completion of the deliverables. The outcome was absolutely amazing, and I couldn’t have been more proud!

The training I’ve received at church and after attending the Fuel Strategies Summit have equipped me to operate in excellence and positively impact the kingdom.

I’ve accepted what I’m called to do. I’m a good assistant, but I have to do better about trusting my discernment when anticipating needs. God gave me the gift so I should be confident in my capabilities.

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” -James 3:17

As my skills have improved, I acquired a greater sense of purpose. This revelation led to the birth of my next venture. Stay tuned for the launch in February 2023.

Goal #3 Recap

As God has continued to do a mighty work on the inside, I’ve kept my commitment to clearing my skin. I’ve been consistent with my skincare routine, gotten facials, cut back on acne triggering foods, and tried new products.

My current skincare routine:

• Skin Script Green Tea Cleanser

• Skin Script Cucumber Hydration Toner

• Berri Clear Superfruit Skin Smoothie

• Just A Sip Infinite Glow Acne & Scarring Repair Serum

• Skin Script Cacteen Balancing Moisturizer

• Cerave Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen (sheer tint)

In addition to using the skincare products above daily, I tried some supplements as well. I saw the best results after using the Kallistia Hyperpigmentation Cleanse capsules. The product’s description stated claims of helping with discoloration and fading existing dark spots, and it did exactly that! Check out my comparison photos. The dark marks faded and my skin is glowing!

If you’re interested in trying these or any other Kallistia products, use code KIALA10 when purchasing. Let me know how it works for you.

Goal #4 Recap

My last goal was to expand my blog. It didn't go as I hoped in regards to marketing and monetization, but I did notice an increase in views. I always enjoy reading comments and receiving feedback on my posts. Thank you for rocking with me even in the midst of my lack of posting. It truly means a lot to have support that motivates me to continue to answer the call.

I’m proud to say I’ve accomplished what I’ve set out to do this year. In addition to my goals, I’ve earned other achievements as well. Here are a few highlights:

• Made 3 years at my job

• Completed Boss Generation’s Beyond the Finish Line Program that led to routine coaching sessions

• Featured in the Take Stock in Children’s August newsletter

• Hosted a diaper drive at work where we collected 897 diapers plus wipes

It is meaningful to track progress while working towards something. This is significant for staying focused while serving as a memento of how much has been accomplished so far. As I wrote this blog, my heart’s posture changed. The heavy-heartedness I once felt turned into gratitude. Everything I experienced was necessary preparation to launch me into greatness for next year.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Written with grace,

Kiala

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? If not, say this prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus,

Come into my life. I accept You as my Lord and personal Savior. I believe in my heart that You died and rose from the dead to save me. Thank You, Lord, for saving me in Jesus' name. Amen.

If you prayed this prayer, then congratulations! All of your sins are now forgiven and you have been born again. Heaven is rejoicing!