10/17/2026
HELLO ALL YOU HAPPY PEOPLE! It was my birthday this week. I am now 32 years old and way beyond my days as a baby Christian and way beyond the day I first started sending out words of encouragement. When I first started sending these posts I was fresh out of highschool. I don't even remember if I had a job. I had just recently rededicated my life to God. Recently got baptized. I didn't know my Bible all that well, still using the table of contents. I was reckless and foolish. Struggled with doubt and fear. I didn't always do what I knew what I was supposed to do. That was back in 2014 it is now 2026 and I have it all figured out now and I don't sin or mess up anymore and my faith is perfect....just kidding. No, trust me 12 years later I can still be foolish. I still have to keep my anxieties in check. I still mess up. I still have to stoke the fires of my faith. I'm still in need of encouragement and reminders of God's promises. I will tell you one thing that has changed in 12 years. I have a deeper understanding of God's grace and mercy. A greater appreciation for it. A realization that when it comes to my salvation I don't bring anything to the table but the sin that needs forgiveness. I remember thinking I could earn my spot. I remember thinking the more I do the better I'll be and it doesn't work like that. God has already cleansed and redeemed me. He has already made me worthy. On my best days He's encouraging and motivating me. On my worst days He's picking me up and turning me back to Him. There's no bonus points. I'm not earning a victory I'm walking victorious because of Jesus. It's all because of Jesus that you and me have a seat at the table. I wish I would've known this 12 years ago but I'm glad I know this now and I can't wait to see what else God will reveal to me with the years to come. -TonY