I am a person who has always looked forward to the New Year as a fresh start. A chance for a much needed do-over in some areas and a celebration of accomplishment in other areas. It is a time of reflection and renewal for me. What worked in 2015? What did not work last year? Am I gaining in areas that have challenged me in the past or am I losing ground?
What can I celebrate from 2015? Learning new things like updating my web site, creating an identity for my ministry and writing a weekly blog. Making new friends and deepening old ones. Growing my direct sales business and helping others reach their goals. Supporting a best friend who got married and a daughter who graduated and moved away to college. Losing 26 pounds and getting physically fit.
And in what areas am I thankful for a much needed do-over? Balancing better and creating more time for margin. Losing the 15 pounds I gained back and starting to exercise again. Being a more supportive wife to my husband’s job change that requires more hours and more travel. Investing daily time in God’s word and listening carefully for his voice. Being a better steward of the resources God has given me.
All of this is possible but not in my own power. Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This verse is specifically talking about our basic needs – what to eat, drink, wear. It is applicable, however, to this time of reflection. I need to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness to make sure that what I seek line’s up with what God wants for me.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” In 2016 I want straighter paths taken with a healthier body.
Dear Lord, I want to trust in you with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding. Help me in all ways to submit to you. Amen.