“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14 KJV
Many of us view a new year as a new beginning, a fresh start, or an opportunity to start over with a clean slate. We often use this time to reflect and look back over the previous year or years past; analyzing decisions made, challenges faced, opportunities gained or missed, successes and failures. In this new year, many of us will set life, financial, or weight loss goals, make resolutions to break habits, eliminate debt, save money, pray more, read the bible more, or attend church regularly. For a while, things usually get off to a good start, but by the year's end, goals aren’t met, and resolutions are broken, due to time constraints, unforeseen circumstances, or other things in life that distract us and shift our attention. Most of the time, the failure to follow through simply occurs, because there is no power or true motivation behind it.
“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5 KJV
I personally do not believe in making new year resolutions, but that is not to say that it is wrong, if you choose to do so. I just feel as true believers in the Most High God, we shouldn’t have to wait until the beginning of a new year to start or stop doing something. We should strive to be better daily. We should seek to live life abundantly, obediently, and with purpose, at all times — not just on special occasions or during holiday seasons. But with that being said, whether we are making resolutions or setting personal goals, we must ensure that God is always at the forefront. In whatever it is that we desire or hope to accomplish, we must remember to turn to the One who has the power to change it or help us achieve it. We have His Holy Word to guide us and His Holy Spirit to strengthen us.
“Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass.” Psalm 37:4-5 KJV
2021 is now behind us — whether we walked through the hardest year of our life, filled with trials and tribulations, dark days, losses, adversity, and testing, or experienced a fairly easy one filled with blessings — we should still praise and thank God that we made it through to 2022. This is a brand-new year, and each day is filled with brand new mercies. Rather than focus on what went wrong, what you did wrong, or what you did not accomplish in the past, focus on the opportunities that lie ahead. It is ok to start over, start slow, or start small. Just keep moving forward with a clear mind, and a heart full of gratitude and determination.
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 KJV
Continue to glorify God in all things and keep your eyes focused on Him. Knowing that He can turn mourning into laughter, sorrow into joy, and give you peace where there is chaos. I pray that in this year. you are surrounded by love, filled with God’s grace, hope, and His wisdom. Trust God to lead you in the right direction and seek His guidance to order your steps. Remain diligent and steadfast!
“Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.” Isaiah 42:9 KJV
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