"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:6 (NIV)
As we prepare to welcome in the New Year, we revisit the events of the year past, remembering those times of joy and sadness. We recall fondly the times spent with new friends and the passing of others. Looking inwardly, we find comfort in those times we acted well, and with regret in those times we did not. In the new year's fresh start, we resolve to get more things right than wrong.
How do we live into this resolution? We can do so with confidence when we remember:
God Forgives: “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.” - 1 John 1:9
This verse from 1 John reminds us that God's forgiveness is always available to us. No matter how often we falter, God promises that if we come to Him with a repentant heart, He will forgive and purify us. It encourages us to be honest about our shortcomings, seek God’s mercy, and strive to improve, knowing His grace covers all our misdeeds. Having been recipients of His grace, extend the same to others and forgive ourselves.
God Cares: “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7
In this verse, Peter reassures us that God’s care is a constant presence in our lives. When we feel overwhelmed by life's challenges and worries, we can lay our burdens at His feet. God’s deep and abiding love means we are never alone in our struggles. This encouragement to trust in God's care helps us face the new year with a renewed sense of peace and assurance.
God Guides: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses from Proverbs powerfully remind us of the importance of relying on God’s wisdom rather than our own. When we trust Him wholeheartedly and seek His guidance in every aspect of our lives, He promises to direct our paths. This assurance helps us navigate the uncertainties of the new year with faith, knowing that God's guidance will lead us to where we need to be.
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, let us embrace the journey toward perfection, not as a quest for flawlessness but as a commitment to grow in grace and love. Each step forward is a testament to our resolve to live more fully in God's will, becoming more Christ-like in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes. This journey is not about achieving a state of flawlessness but about continual improvement and spiritual growth. Here are some ways to focus on this in the coming year:
Daily Devotion and Prayer: Connect with God through prayer and reading His word.
Practice Forgiveness: Let go of grievances and extend forgiveness to others and yourself.
Acts of Kindness and Service: Serve others through acts of kindness and compassion.
Self-Reflection and Repentance: Reflect on your actions and seek God’s strength to overcome sins.
Community and Fellowship: Surround yourself with a supportive faith community.
Remember, the journey toward perfection is a lifelong process. With God's help, we can make meaningful strides, becoming ever more aligned with His image and purpose for our lives.
Heavenly Father, as we embark on this new year, we thank You for Your unwavering love and faithfulness. We confess our sins and shortcomings, trusting in Your promise of forgiveness. Help us to cast our anxieties upon You, knowing You care for us deeply. Guide our steps, Lord, as we seek to live according to Your will. Strengthen us to grow in grace, to extend love and forgiveness to others, and to pursue the path of righteousness with steadfast hearts. May we continually strive to become the people You created us to be, reflecting Your love and light in all we do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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