SUBJECT: “LESSONS LEARNED.”

Minister Dr. Sharon Watson
25 minutes ago
3 min read

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Day 58 of 61 Expanded

Proverbs 3:5-6 is one of my spiritual anchor scriptures that keeps me prophetically grounded in the LORD. “Trust in the LORD with all your heart means having complete Faith in GOD. “Do not lean on your own understanding" means to rely solely on GOD.

“In all your ways acknowledge him" means to honor, reverence, and worship GOD in every aspect of your life. “He will make straight your paths" means “IF” you let GOD, He will guide you, make your way crystal clear according to Purpose, Plan, and Will.

As this 2025 year comes to a close, let’s just take a sacred pause. Not just to celebrate survival, but to reflect on the good and not-so-good things we experienced this year. I hope we learned that our great GOD never wastes not one single season. Every victory, delay, disappointment, and lesson you faced this year carried a designed plan, purpose, and will just for you. QUESTION . . .The question is not what happened, but what we learn from all things that did happen. Here are five universal learning lessons with predicted should have been consequences.

Lesson 1

GOD Was Faithful Even When Things Were Uncertain.

What should have been learned?
- To have deeper trust in GOD, and not in circumstances. Trusting that GOD will sustain you in all your ways. Even when plans shifted and answers were delayed, GOD remained unmovable. The benefit of this lesson is unshakable faith. Knowing that our Holy GOD does not change with the seasons. “Great is thy faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:23.

Lesson 2

Spiritual Growth Often Came Through Discomfort.

What should have been learned?
- While Spiritual maturity is painful, it is necessary to grow and mature in GOD. It should also produce a stronger character and spiritual discernment. While some lessons came wrapped in challenges and discomfort, they stretched us, corrected us, and strengthened us.

The benefit is wisdom that prepares us for the future, not just relief in the present.

“All things work together for good to them that love God.” -Romans 8:28

Lesson 3

Prayer Was Not Optional. It Was Essential.

What should have been learned?
- Without a doubt, the more consistent Prayer is essential because it fortifies your dependence on GOD rather than yourself. With all the personal and political stresses this year should have reminded you that Prayer is not a last resort. But it is your daily life jacket.

The benefit is deeper intimacy with GOD and clearer spiritual direction.

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Lesson 4

People and Relationships Truly Matter.

What should have been learned?
- Family, church family, and community should be appreciated from the viewpoint of GOD! Spiritual Wisdom and Spiritual Discernment are needed in choosing healthy relationships. The two fit like gloves for hands because they are tools GOD created to protect us. I hope this year taught us the value of support, forgiveness, and unity with one another. The benefit is stronger connections and hearts aligned with GOD through His Love is community instead of isolation.

“Two are better than one.” Ecclesiastes 4:9

Last, but not least.

Remember:

Lesson 5

Gratitude Changes Perspective.

What should have been learned?
- Contentment and gratitude in the presence and promises of GOD no matter what the circumstances looked or sounded like. Because sincere Gratitude should have helped you see GOD’S hand even every situation. The benefit is GOD’S PEACE and JOY that do not depend on the outcomes.

“In everything give thanks.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

2025 Closing The Year Reflection Homework.

Before stepping into 2026 ask yourself:

What did GOD teach me, personally?
How did I grow?
What wisdom must I carry forward?

Do not rush past the lessons. Honor them. Apply them and let them shape how you move into 2026.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly FATHER,

Thank You for every lesson this year has brought to us Your dear children. Help us not to forget what You have taught us through adversity, as we trusted You the best way we could. Help us apply your spiritual wisdom to all of our circumstances, anoint us with your spiritual courage to grow from every lesson you taught, and the faith to move forward and stronger than ever before. In JESUS' matchless and holy name, Amen.