Princess Diaries Entry #9:
Photo Credit: Joy-Voices of Fire (Apple Music Cover)
Welcome back to Princess Diaries!!! I was waiting to do this month’s blog until the new year because I truly needed the FULL year before I gathered my 2024 insights. 2024 was undoubtedly a year of trials and tribulations for many, a year where the spiritual energy of the number 8 — representing new beginnings, karma, justice, balance, resurrection, and abundance — became very evident. For everyone, the year brought its share of challenges, but there was a noticeable distinction between those who struggled and those who seemed to thrive. The key difference was in perspective: how we viewed our trials and how they shaped our inner peace and joy.
This reflection led me to consider how, as a collective, we value our struggles. Do we allow our lows to interfere with our ability to maintain joy, peace, and faith? 2024 brought disruptions that were sometimes unimaginable, both in the good and bad aspects of life. For me, it was a year that reinforced the idea that “it’s not about what happens, but how you respond.” Despite facing hardships, the key to maintaining my joy and peace was staying anchored in God. This helped me choose love and joy, even when the circumstances were difficult.
I realized that when we experience our "darkest nights of the soul," it’s essential to stay focused on the light in order to receive the abundance waiting on the other side. Life’s rewards aren’t necessarily tied to material wealth, but rather to our ability to maintain a pure heart through challenging times. This is a reflection of the spiritual concept of karma — the energy we put out into the world is returned to us. Karma isn’t just about revenge or retribution; it’s also about the energy we exude in our words, thoughts, and actions. The negative energy we put out, such as gossip, self-doubt, or judgment, eventually finds its way back to us. What we believe and speak ultimately shapes who we become.
2024 has been a powerful reminder of the importance of intentionality and self-control. The way we approach our struggles directly influences the outcomes of those struggles. If we choose to lose faith when times get tough, or believe the self-doubt that tries to creep in, we limit our potential for growth and abundance. But if we choose to maintain our faith, positivity, and trust in God, we unlock the blessings on the other side of our challenges.
The following Bible verses were powerful anchors for me during 2024. They reminded me to remain centered in God’s peace and presence, and to trust that He would guide me through the chaos:
Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Matthew 6:34: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
1 Peter 5:7: "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."
Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
These verses became my foundation in 2024, helping me to remain anchored in joy despite the turbulence around me. They reminded me that peace and joy are not dependent on external circumstances but on our inner faith and trust in God.
As we move forward into the future, I encourage you to reflect on the following prompts to help you stay grounded in joy, peace, and abundance, no matter what challenges come your way:
How do you respond to trials and tribulations?
Reflect on Philippians 4:6-7. How can choosing prayer and thanksgiving, rather than anxiety, shift your perspective and help you maintain peace during difficult times?
What is the significance of focusing on God’s peace during your darkest moments?
Reflect on Isaiah 41:10. How can God’s promise of strength and support help you stay focused on the light, even in times of deep struggle?
How can intentionality and self-control shape your perspective on trials?
Consider the concept of karma described in the post. How can positive energy, faith, and trust in God influence the way you navigate life’s challenges, and how can they help you avoid the trap of negative self-talk, judgment, or victimhood?
What does it mean to cast your anxieties onto God?
Reflect on 1 Peter 5:7. How can surrendering your worries to God free you from the burden of self-doubt and allow you to experience His peace in difficult times?
These reflections and Bible verses are meant to help you anchor yourself in God’s peace, love, and joy — no matter what life brings. Remember, it’s not about what happens to us, but how we choose to respond. And when we remain focused on God’s light, even through the darkest moments, we will always find the abundance that life has to offer.