Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. Thatwill shoot adrenaline into your souls! Hebrews 12:1-3 Message
I can’t change yesterday; it’s over and done with, but I can call for a better today and tomorrow. So many are making New Years resolutions. Some are simple, some are severe and unrealistic. Some call for extreme changes in lifestyle or society, some commit to going to church every Sunday, losing 100 lbs, never eating sweets again, working out everyday. They typically last about 30 days before falling into the same old patterns of last year.
I’m doing something different this year. Instead of making a resolution to make lasting changes, I’m committing my ways to the Lord, delighting in him each day, enjoying my life, giving my worship, continuing in the Word. Each day he has given me is a gift and I will find enjoyment in it, whether I must work or stay home. I will find ways to encourage others and show them a love that never fails.
What will I get out of this? I will have stability because I place my trust in Him. Outside the storm may rage but inside I will have peace. I may be tempted to fear because of what I see, but I know it won’t come near me. I trust His Word and I trust in Him. Other people may fail me, shoot, I may fail them, but God will never fail so I’ll keep my eyes on Him and follow His example.
I will speak blessings over people and not curses! I pray you’ll commit to doing the same. You will reap what you sow, so make sure that the words of your mouth give life to others then you’ll be rewarded by seeing them flourish while your own garden produces the very same generosity. Be a life giver by focusing on the good not the bad.
So bye-bye 2018! It’s been a good year and I’ve seen the blessing of the Lord in so many ways. I won’t dwell on the poor decisions, the regrets of the last season, what others have done or not done. I will keep my eyes on Jesus, not even on what lies ahead. As long as I’m following Him, I won’t get lost or find myself alone. He has a plan and I’m excited to see what it is.
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