January is a time of New Beginnings—a beginning of a New Year. After I put away all the Christmas decorations, it seems like things can look rather bare and almost bleak. On the other hand, I realize it can be a fresh start for new things to come. A time of hope for new experiences, love, adventure, joy and fun.
Much of what we receive is how we look and think about things. If we go into the New Year with faith that God can do exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or think (Eph. 3:20), that His blessings are there each and every day, and that His mercies are new every morning (Lam. 3:23), we are positioning ourselves to experience His greatness.
Regardless of what we see or feel God is orchestrating every moment of our lives, and the plans He has for us are for good and to give us a future (Jer.29:11). At the beginning of last year, I heard the Spirit of the Lord say to me, "This year will be a difficult year." When I heard that I thought, "I better increase my prayer life!" I certainly didn't want to hear that. However, I could feel the Lords love embracing my heart.
Shortly after that, difficulties did come. My husband faced a life-threatening health challenge. He survived only by God's grace. But his health challenges continued. Each time, he was brought through and healed. Even though he was going through the health issues, the experiences deeply affected me. My faith was challenged; my love grew, and I got to experience the miracle working power of God through His faithfulness and support and prayers of others.
None of us know what tomorrow will bring, but one thing I know is that He will be there with us, guiding us as the Great Shepherd, leading us in the way He wants us to go, and perfecting that which concerns us (Psalms 138:8). What a comfort to know that He never leaves us nor forsakes us (Heb. 13:5)! We can trust our future and dreams to Him because He is always faithful.
Song:
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your faithfulness and steadfast love for us each day. May we grow closer to You, and may our faith be strengthened as we face both victories and challenges in our everyday lives. May we have grateful hearts and praise on our lips for You are worthy to be praised. We surrender our hearts and lives to You as our Great Shepherd, trusting that You will always lead us with love and care.
Divine Exercises and Journal Prompts
- List 3 scriptures and promises of God to meditate on in this New Year
- What 3 things are you believing God for in this New Year
- List 3 ways you can deepen your walk with the Lord going forward in the New Year.
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