Chances are no matter how great your 2015 was, there were some ups and downs along the way. I know for me and my family, there were several amazing things that blew us away, but there were also trials that took some time to work through. 2016 and each year after will look at least a little bit similar. So how should we approach the new year and all of our hopes and resolutions?
Pray through your resolutions – Proverbs 16:3 “Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.” It’s tempting to write goals, make changes, and start new things based solely on what we see. But, we need to ask God what He sees and have our resolutions shaped by Him. Spend some time praying, listening, and journaling as you consider your hopes for 2016.
Plan for eternal impact – James 4:14 “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” Short-term goals like losing weight, organizing finances, or vacations as a family aren’t bad, in fact they are often very helpful and necessary. However, we need to have a grander vision for what God wants to accomplish in the new year. Consider plans with eternal weight, such as who God wants you to share the gospel with, where you will be generous, and how you and your family can serve others.
Praise Jesus for His faithfulness this and every year – Deuteronomy 7:9 “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations.” Whatever changes occur this year, one thing is certain, the character of God will not be one of them. God is the same- yesterday, today, and forever. Make a commitment to praise Him in every circumstance, knowing that He is with you, for you, and working things together for good.
There is much hope surrounding the new year. And there should be, it’s a fresh start for many and a great opportunity for evaluation and improvement. But don’t forget to make Jesus the center of it all. Commit your year to Him in prayer, planning, and praise. He is faithful to satisfy and sustain you through every trial and blessing that comes your way in 2016.
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