41 and Thankful: Reflecting on Growth and God's Faithfulness

I turned 41 this week, and my heart is full of gratitude. God has done so much for me, and it would be foolish not to acknowledge it.

Now, I’m not here to list out everything- not because I don’t want to, but because I know some people are still in the waiting room, trusting God for their own testimonies. Instead, I just want to share this as encouragement.

As I reflected on my journey from 40 to 41, I almost found myself pouting, asking God why it felt like He made me “start over.” From my perspective, it was as if He hit the refresh button on my life, and I’m still trying to understand why. I’m no longer fighting it, though (oh, I did, I'd ugly cry and throw Christian adult tantrums, kind of reminds me now of Jonah, lol) - now I simply want to understand what His plans are for me.

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But as I reviewed the year, the things God did, and the things He didn’t, the Holy Spirit whispered to me: “Are you really sure God hasn’t been good to you? From where I stand, it looks like you’ve been favored.”

That whisper humbled me. I paused and prayed for forgiveness. Because while I was busy eyeing greener pastures, I had forgotten to notice my own lawn - nourished, green, and bug-free.

Yes, there have been chapters I wouldn’t have chosen. Times when God practically dragged me across the room. But there were also moments when He gave me blessings I never asked for, when He answered prayers after I whispered for mercy, or when He sent helpers to cover needs I couldn’t handle on my own. How could I ever open my mouth and claim God hasn’t shown up? The truth is: He always has.

Recently, I’ve seen some of my friends do “gratitude countdowns” leading up to their birthdays. I liked the idea, but it just didn’t happen for me. What I ended up doing instead was setting aside quiet moments of gratitude each day in prayer. No cameras, no likes, RTs, or shares- just me and God, talking honestly about how He’s kept me. And this was more than enough.

There were moments when I compared myself to my peers- in terms of career, family, and life - and I thought I was behind. But each time, God reminded me: some of my peers don’t even have the opportunities I take for granted. That thought humbled me. I may not be where I want to be yet, but I am far from where I used to be.

I recall lamenting about my career on this blog (wish I could find that post again!). Many of you encouraged me, I worked harder, prayed for favor, and over time, things shifted. Now, here I am - once again crying about “my career” and now fussing about growth. Sheeesh. Can we ever have enough in this life?

Looking back, I realize:

• I have more than I deserve.

• I’ve seen God’s mercy in ways I can’t explain.

• I’ve been lifted by prayers, support, and unexpected help.

• And through it all, God has been faithful.

So my prayer is simple:

• I hope I never forget the marvelous things He has done.

• I hope I never grow ungrateful for His goodness.

• I hope I remember how little I once had, and how far He has brought me.

• I hope I never fall into the trap of comparison, knowing each of us is on a unique journey.

What about you?

• What are you thankful for today? Do you only reflect during birthdays or special seasons? Do you keep a gratitude journal to write down your testimonies so you don’t forget? Or do you have a memory that remembers it all? Bros, I hail oo. 

I’d love to hear your reflections, too.

You are loved,
Emaleecious