The worst of times, the best of times. Those were my thoughts as 2006 came to a close. After almost being shot twice by a relative, having to change jobs so I won't have to compromise my beliefs, moving from city to city and place to place, I had low moments when I thought nobody wanted me.

But I realized that I didn't only have the worst of times that year. I also had the best of them. People who cared for me took me into their homes, helped me, prayed for me. I now have a job I really love. I learned important lessons. I got to know a wonderful man. And I'm back on speaking terms with my relative.

Sometimes, circumstances appear scary to us. And we start to think of God fearfully, wondering what He is doing in our lives. But His ways are always good though they may not always be clear to us, or in the way that we expect. Let us be assured of that as this New Year unfolds. Let us entrust ourselves to Him in confidence and hope. Let us not be afraid.

adapted from: Kyregma