While I was enjoying a leisurely walk on a cold day, a snowflake landed on the sleeve of my coat. I examined its intricate beauty, and was reminded of God's creativity and awesome power. As we embark on a new year, perhaps some of us are apprehensive about facing a new challenge, or concerned about an existing problem, but we can rest assured that the spirit of God will empower us to meet every situation - new or old - with confidence and strength.
It is important to appreciate what a turning point this can be in your life. Whatever has happened in the past year, the New Year brings fresh beginnings. Life is about change. So let our mornings begin and our days end in prayers of gratitude. Let us be thankful for the blessings of the past and the promise of the future, accepting that the changes that come about are opportunities for our growth and for our good.
A long time ago, a friend gave me a book for my birthday. When I opened it, I was surprised and puzzled to find that its pages were blank. My friend said, "Write whatever you want; make it your book - your way."
In this New Year, I remember my deceased friend lovingly. The book she gave me with its clean, white pages is a reminder that each of us receives an opportunity like mine every Jan. 1. We are given 365 blank pages, and we may write whatever we choose on each one. What a splendid chance to begin anew, living each day differently, correcting previous mistakes.
Some of us make New Year's resolutions. We may resolve to read the Bible more, pray more or attend church on a more regular basis. However, if God is not at the center of our resolutions, they will not succeed. But if our resolution is in agreement with God's will, then He will enable us to do it. Philippians 4:13 tells us, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength," and John 15:4 says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
We must pray before making our resolutions: Pray for wisdom. Pray for strength to complete our goals. And remember to give God all the glory. A new year shouldn't necessarily require a new resolution. If we put God first in our lives and seek His will, then every day will be a "new day" in Christ.
Lord, we commit into your hands the happenings of the past year and ask for your direction and guidance in the coming year. Please give us Your grace, Your tranquility and Your wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen,
Peggy Toney Horton lives in Nitro and can be reached at pegylu@suddenlink.net.