All of us experienced our share of challenges and obstacles this year. We were pressed on every side by troubles, but we were not crushed. We were perplexed, but not driven to despair. We were hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We got knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through the Grace and Faithfulness of God, we are still standing and standing STRONG!
This year, my country experienced the great disaster of a Category 4 Hurricane which left many without homes, money and jobs.
It was a really challenging time for us but I am grateful to The Lord that no lives were lost.
Worldwide, it has been quite an interesting year from the Isis attacks to the American 2016 Election (VERY INTERESTING). Additionally, there were a lot of people who transitioned this year from Former President Fidel Castro to Author Harper Lee.
2016 took a toll on many of us both physically, mentally and emotionally. It seemed like the ‘bad luck’ of 2016 would never end. Despite what we may have encountered this year, God has still been GOOD to us and deserves all the Glory!
This year has been a PHENOMENAL YEAR for me personally and I am so grateful to God for the many opportunities and open doors I have been afforded throughout this year! The Highlight of my 2016 was serving the people of Abaco, Bahamas on my first mission trip (which was an AMAZING EXPERIENCE…see pictures below) and being awarded The Bahamas National Youth Award in Religion.
As we appreciate God’s Blessings over the past year, we can also look forward to even greater things ahead in the New Year. It is my prayer that you will experience the magnificent Love of God in a special way. Continue to hold fast on the promises of God for those who put their trust in The Lord will not be disappointed.
Raphael R. Roker 