More Than Just a New Year Resolution!
I wonder if you have made a New Year resolution for this year. Perhaps, like many of us, you’ve given up on the idea as you don’t seem to be able to carry through with your resolutions.
I am thankful that many years ago, I started seeking God for a verse of scripture or theme for each new year. Each time, I’ve written it in the front of my journal so that I can refer to it throughout the year. I can remember way back when our sons were school aged, being challenged by Romans 8: 28—And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. This verse was very familiar to me. I could quote it and believed it to be true. At least I thought I believed it. I can’t remember what challenged me to think more deeply about this verse, but throughout that year I found myself coming across testimonies, other Bible verses etc that challenged me to think about whether I believed this completely. I’m thankful that from then on, I knew that God is always working behind the scenes and that at some point, we’ll see that more fully.
I also remember one year dwelling on God’s word to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12: 9
My grace is always more than enough for you, and my power finds its full expression through your weakness.
(The Passion translation)
I remember feeling quite relieved that God could use me despite my weakness. During the year I kept coming back to that thought and it’s still an encouragement to me today. More recently, at the beginning of a year I was asking God what he wanted me to do in this new season of my life and he said, Just follow me. How simple! Now, a few years on, I still find myself coming back to these three words when my life seems complicated.
As I look back on my theme for 2024, which was to explore more about the love of God, I am thankful that I enter 2025 with a greater appreciation of God’s love for me. This year as I was listening to something online, I was challenged by a question put to the listeners—What is your faith prayer for the year? I believe that God has given me the name of a person who has turned away from God whom I can pray for and believe for this year.
I’ve shared with you some of my experiences in seeking God’s guidance at the beginning of the year, with the hope that it will encourage you in your own personal journey.
Actually, I’ve decided to have a break from sharing thoughts on family life and to share a devotional with you each month.
May you experience God’s sustaining love and guidance throughout 2025.
Blessings,
Grandma Adele
