Last week I met a special friend at our local coffee shop and she was talking about words she was thinking about for the New Year. I wasn’t sure which word(s) she decided on but I thought of “FOCUS” because of Traci. I’d never chosen a word or theme and I’ve never been one to have a New Year’s resolution; however, Traci’s thoughts inspired me.
Lots of people come up with resolutions and most fail. I think it’s because our environment often does little to push us where we want to be. In our everyday lives, we encounter naysayers or people who neither support nor oppose our goals. It can be difficult to give yourself the extra push to keep trying. That’s where FAITH comes in. God knows what He wants to do through you and He will make it happen when you trust Him.
“Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27
OPPORTUNITIES for improvement and service happen when you find people with similar aspirations. Today, you can find your group in numerous ways, whether it’s online, in a local meeting place, church, or a large organization. In a community, you have the power to be influenced and to influence others. A personal example is the American Legion Post 7 in Durham, NC. My husband is a member of Sons of the American Legion and American Legion Riders. I have seen so much good come from their post! They exemplify true honor, patriotism and devotion to improving lives in our communities. I can honestly say that I have met some of the best, most genuine and generous people there. Seeing strong people come together for wholesome purposes is a beautiful thing! They are a blessing to me and countless others!!
I didn’t write for weeks as I was more focused on Christmas and family. Christmas is my favorite holiday. I love the happy feeling of finding special gifts, the magic of icicle lights and decorations, sweet memories of Christmases past, extra family time and of course, celebrating the birth of our Savior, Jesus CHRIST – the most precious gift! It is my hope that for anyone reading this to know that although Christmas comes at the end of the year, it was the beginning of our opportunity for salvation.
“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Matthew 1:23
To be perfectly honest, I have a tendency to use the word “useless” a lot. Granted, a lot of things may be but, I need to look at what’s USEFUL as in seeing the glass half full – not half empty. I have to admit that I have been really disappointed since I asked a couple of people for help with my website/blog and got nothing at all. What’s pretty sad is they both said they were so excited to help in any way!?!? If I can’t reach people, it is useless – not what I want to be.
On the flip side, remember Traci? She told me that one night she read all of my posts and what I had written was meaningful and helpful to her. That meant so much to me! Between that and the written comments I’ve gotten (that I like to reread!) I am encouraged.
My last word in the equation is STRENGTH. This one is my favorite because it’s physical, mental and spiritual. Our bodies, minds and spirits are phenomenal creations made in Christ’s own image. All of us are stronger in one way or another but it’s important to strive for balance. Being healthy and strong requires attention to all three aspects. In most resolutions, people focus on their bodies – losing weight, exercising, quitting smoking, eating healthier, etc. All of that is great but, we can’t forget about attention to our thoughts, learning and growing closer to God.
Last year was the first year I read my daily devotional. Taking time to read Scripture, pray for guidance, and at least try to apply what I learn has given me so much. I know He is always with me, He comforts me in saddest times and He makes happy times even happier. God is the source of all we have: strength, blessing, success. Some blessings are more direct than others but count all from Him the same.
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. John 15:5
May God bless us in 2020!