Reflecting on 2025: A Journey of Faith and Growth

2025 was a year of unexpected lessons.

I remember stepping into it with so much hope. I truly believed everything was finally going to look up. The plans were clear in my mind, and the expectations even clearer. But if there’s one thing this year reminded me of, it’s this: God rarely moves the way we expect Him to.

At least, not for me.

I’ve always prayed, “Lord, have Your way in my life.” What I’m learning is that His way sometimes looks confusing. Sometimes it seems uncomfortable. Sometimes it appears to be the complete opposite of what I thought I needed. But that’s where faith shows up.

There’s a gospel song I love that says, “When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.” This year, I’ve had to do just that — trust God’s heart when I couldn’t understand His methods.

What 2025 Taught Me About Faith

2025 taught me what praying without ceasing really looks like.

Not the polished, scheduled prayers. Not the ones tied neatly to routine. But constant conversation with God — throughout the day, in the highs and the lowest lows.

This year brought me to a place where there was no real comfort in the things I once leaned on. No distractions that truly soothed. No shortcuts around the pain or uncertainty. And when everything else fell quiet, I realized God was inviting me back into a deeper connection I had neglected.

He brought me to a place where He was my only option — and somehow, also my safest one. Now, as I pause and take inventory of my life, I’m seeing clearly where I need to invite Him in more intentionally. I won’t pretend that this journey has been easy. Growing up, much of my relationship with God was tied to church and organized religion. As I’ve gotten older and my life has shifted, I’ve sometimes felt… out of place.

But what I’m slowly learning is that God isn’t asking me to find Him in structures that no longer fit me. I genuinely believe He’s asking me to find Him within my actual life — in motherhood, in work, in stillness, in questions, in surrender. I’m still learning how to articulate that, but I know it’s real.

Embracing the Journey

Embracing this journey has been a challenge. There are days when I feel overwhelmed. The responsibilities of life can weigh heavily on my shoulders. But I remind myself that it’s okay to feel this way. It’s part of the process.

I’ve learned to take small steps. Sometimes, it’s just about finding a moment of quiet. Other times, it’s about reaching out to a friend or journaling my thoughts. These little acts help me reconnect with myself and with God.

I’ve also discovered the importance of community. Surrounding myself with supportive people has made a significant difference. Sharing my struggles and victories with others reminds me that I’m not alone. We’re all in this together, navigating the ups and downs of life.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As I look toward 2026, my prayer is simple: Lord, continue to order my life.

I’m not expecting everything to be sunshine and rainbows. I’ve learned better than that. But I do believe that what He’s preparing to do will be “exceedingly, abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20).

And that’s enough for me.

I’m choosing to trust that His plans — even the uncomfortable ones — are rooted in love, wisdom, and purpose. I’m choosing faith over clarity, surrender over control, and trust over fear.

A Thank You From My Heart

Before this year ends, I want to pause and say thank you.

To everyone who has read my blogs, opened my emails, watched my videos, shared my content, or simply followed along quietly — I see you, and I appreciate you more than you know. Efitmi has been such a sacred outlet for me, a place where I’ve been able to process, create, and breathe through some very real seasons.

Your support — spoken or silent — has meant more to me than words can capture.

As we close out this year, I wish you a safe and peaceful holiday season and a New Year filled with God’s presence, guidance, and peace. May 2026 meet you with hope, growth, and gentle reminders that you’re never walking alone.

With so much love,

Shelleka 💛