WHAT'S NEW

But without faith it is impossible
to please him: for he that
cometh to God must believe
that He is, and that He is a
rewarder of them that
diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6

For close to 83 years now, I have lived through many New Year holidays. Many of those in the beginning years, I have no recall of anything having to do with the change of a year's date overnight. When grade school age, I remember our church had a New Year's Eve fellowship time. The first part of the celebration was a regular church service. We would then break for a big eating time in the basement. For a long time, that eating time was the highlight for me. After that, we again assembled in the upstairs auditorium and various things were done from year to year as we awaited the strike of the clock at midnight. There was a prayer time at midnight and then we headed for home.

In those days, there were always talks of resolutions. For a long time I didn't know what that meant and really didn't care. I understand that concept more now than then but I still shy away from that word “resolutions.” When I see that word, I think self determination. Its when I determine how I am going to change, how I intend to steer my life, or how I determine I am going to overall do better. It is then I must admit to some definite “I” trouble.

For me, an approaching new year has meant reviewing the old year. I'm well aware of my weaknesses and God has seen me through them, but not of my own doing. As I look to a new year, I know things that need changing in my life, but I can't do that on my own. Without the Lord Jesus in my life, I can't change a thing. There is just so much we can do on our own usually with limited results. Without Jesus, I'm unable to make major changes on my own.

On my part, I do know the one thing that is most needed in my life this year. We've had some Sunday school lessons of late that have mentioned the word “seek.” Jesus stated in His teaching that if I seek, I will find. I know I need to be more of a seeker of the things of God. I need more time in God's Word, not just hearing it but applying it. I need to seek God in prayer and meditation more than ever.

As I've now stepped into 2022, I am promised that God is already going before me, preparing my way through the territory of a new year. I must watch for His footsteps and not veer from the path He is paving for my good and for His glory.

Thank You Father for a new year. We don't know what it will bring in our lives, but we know as we involve You in our every moment, all will be well. Guide and direct us in these days. May we walk in obedience to You and Your will. In Jesus name...Amen|