2016 was my hardest year yet. And I’ve seen that phrase all over the Internet. “Hard” often implies “bad.” And at points it really was. But I’ve come to realize this: we are to expect suffering, and loneliness brings us to deeper intimacy with the Lord. Praise Him!

Like myself, you might be reading lots of articles like this to prep for the New Year. But these are 15 things I’ve learned about the Lord this year that carry into 2017 and beyond. He has been so good to teach, encourage, remember and heal me. I hope some of these truths encourage you, especially if you feel the same way about last year and even the upcoming year. Hold on to these for dear life!

1. You aren’t sneaky (1 Corinthians 14:33)
2. You are a gracious God (James 4:6)
3. You hear every prayer (even if I’m asking for the wrong thing) (1 John 5:14)
4. You intercede for me when I can’t find the words (Romans 8:26)
5. You are close to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18)
6. You hold me up when I feel downtrodden (Psalm 94:18)
7. You are enough. More than enough (Philippians 3:8-9)
8. You give good gifts (Matthew 7:11)
9. You remember your children and do not forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6)(Listen here)
10. You make beautiful things out of dust (Revelation 21:4-5)
11. You pluck me out of the net (Psalm 25:15)
12. You carry my burdens (Matthew 11:30)
13. You discipline because you love (Hebrews 12:6)
14. You speak through your Word (2 Timothy 3:16)
15. You provide me with your presence (Psalm 16:11)