This is the last post for 2016, and I am filled with mixed emotions! As I reflect upon this past year, the one thing which stands out the most is the faithfulness of God! Whether I am recalling the valley experiences; those dark, scary circumstances which were difficult to endure, or the mountain top experiences, the moments filled with exuberance and celebration…I see God. Through it all, the highs and the lows, God’s faithfulness endured (Psalms 117:2). His hand of provision and protection never left me, in the darkest of pits as well as the light of celebration, He was there, and for that I am grateful. So the emotions continue to flow.
Now…at the end of this year, I desire to encourage and challenge you to take these five steps to Unlock the New Year:
- Spend time in reflection. To reflect upon the faithfulness of God in your own life. Consider the moments of deepest hurt and pain, can you find God there? In the moments of joy can you see God was there? Perhaps you have never taken the time to find God in those experiences, I challenge you to do so now. You may say, “God wasn’t there”… Look again! (Job 34:21) His word says He will never leave you or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6), therefore…He was there!
- Make a gratitude list. Yes… you have more to be grateful for then you realize. Take inventory of your life over the past year, and count your blessings. Most people spend more time remembering what went wrong, don’t fall into that worthless pit, instead be thankful. Write down the little things as well as the huge things (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Move forward carrying your blessings and leave your ‘baggage’ behind. Blessings will sustain you, baggage will hinder you (Philippians 4:8).
- Seek God for vision. God has a specific plan and purpose for your life in 2017 (Jeremiah 29:11). Don’t miss out by flying into the new year with your own agenda (Isaiah 55:8). Write down the vision, so it is clear, put action steps in place to help keep you on course (Proverbs 16:9). God desires to work in you and through you. You are a necessary part of His master plan (1 Corinthians 12:12).
- Forgive. We live in a world of selfishness. This is not by God’s design, but rather the enemy who comes to steal kill and destroy. He has deceived many. Consequently, everyone has been hurt, disappointed, or offended by someone. Even if that someone is YOURSELF! It’s time to forgive. Forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. When you forgive you are not justifying the behavior, but rather cutting the cords of bondage which keep you from walking freely into the New Year. If you need to forgive someone or yourself, take the time to do so (Ephesians 4:32).
- Trust God. God sees the whole picture. He knows what you do not know. He is faithful, loving and compassionate (Psalms 145:8).He can be trusted. The new year is a step into your future, not your past. Forget the former things, and look to see what NEW thing God has awaiting you in 2017 (Isaiah 43:18-20). We are to keep moving forward with God. Be encouraged not only to forget the prior things that went wrong this year, also refrain from getting stuck in the ‘good’ things. God is constantly moving. He doesn’t want you to get stagnant in your faith, but rather to be as a river, continually moving with His Spirit. Trusting God fully means holding things loosely so you can freely flow with His leading (Proverbs 3:5-6).
No one can predict what 2017 holds for you or me, but we can rely on God to be faithful. He has given us all we need to thrive in the coming New Year. Whether in seasons of adversity or in times contentment, we have all we need in Him (2 Peter 1:3).
When God instructed me to begin this blog earlier this year, I had no idea 10 months later, people from all around the world would be touched by these posts. Thank you all for being a part of what God is doing through this work. Your comments, emails, and prayers have all contributed to helping others uncover purpose in their everyday life. May God keep you and yours in His loving care this coming New Year.
-Lucy Ann
Challenge Question:
Will you spend time in reflection, make a gratitude list, seek God for direction, forgive, and trust God with your whole heart?
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Sharon says
So beautifully said. Thank you, Lucy Ann.
Many blessings to you and your family in this New Year.
Sharon
Lucy Ann says
Sharon,
Blessings, Sharon! May this year be filled with God’s love in special ways, both in your heart and in your family.
Blessings!
Lucy Ann