A New Year

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, and look, new things have come.”

2 Corinthians 5:17

“Then the One seated on the throne said, ‘Look! I am making everything new.’ He also said, ‘Write, because these words are faithful and true.'”

Revelation 21:5

We’re heading into a new year! This transition is different than in years past. We’re gathering in smaller groups, or visiting through video calls.

Most of us have had a tough year. 2020 has not been what we expected. There were many disappointments and losses.

Let’s take some time to look forward. Not far ahead, just to the next week. We can even go day by day.

Let’s look at what we have a little control over…
our attitude
our quiet time
our reaction

We can’t control what is happening around us or the actions of others, but we can focus on ourselves and determine ways we can maintain our peace and calm while the world spins around us. We can find manageable goals and changes that will improve our lives and impact others in meaningful ways.

We can also ask the Lord for His guidance each day. What does He have in store for us? Can we find a verse of scripture to hold onto during the tough times? Can we invite someone else into our plans for accountability and camaraderie?

Once we form a plan of action, we can get into a routine and a rhythm that allows us look a little further out and make more changes, knowing that we’ll be able to adjust if needed.

2021 is a new year, filled with 365 days worth of possibilities. It won’t be all smooth sailing, and there will be obstacles on our path. But we can continue to move forward and envision what we desire to change and create in the coming year and beyond.

PRAYER:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for bringing us to a new year! Thank You for the help and hope we can find in Your Word and through our relationship with You and others in our lives. Thank You that each day provides us with new opportunities to live according to Your principles and plans. Please help us to come to You and ask for guidance and direction for our days.
In Christ’s name, Amen.

Journal: Take some time to write out your hopes and desires for the new year. Start with this coming week and look beyond. What are some easy steps to get you moving in that direction? Ask the Lord for His guidance and blessing.

Photo by Glen Carrie on Unsplash