After the shouts of “Happy New Year!” many begin January anticipating a new year of opportunity and blessing. While only natural, some still bear the weight of last year’s burdens. Just because the calendar flipped a page doesn’t mean all our problems and concerns vanish.
When daily routines are overshadowed by tragic or traumatic events, where can we expect optimism, caring, and attention for our needs? And, how do we make room for others’ feelings when we are struggling ourselves?
Finally, is it possible to prepare for life’s most daunting circumstances before they occur? Because some parts of life are inevitable no matter how we may try to deny it, there must be ways of restoring our sense of stability and well-being. Merely waiting for joy to return is unrealistic.
Knowing where to turn and having a foundation of supernatural strength assures this outcome. Learning to keep trusting in expectancy, that we’ll be glad again at each new day, is a process. Practicing resilience requires a reason.
The only reason that I know of is the living God. His story of Christ’s own path to sacrifice, service, and suffering proves a constant supply for all our needs. He is our recourse and relief when our world is shaky.
This post-Christmas season examine the rest of the story in God’s timeless Word. Behind the Christmas narrative there’s more to consider than nostalgia or surface details. What is the Father offering in the Son? Pray and ask the Spirit of God where He’s providing new insights, clear support, and constant comfort for the road ahead. It can help turn things around in the New Year.
Hope in 2017
“Come, ye weary, heavy laden; bruised and broken by the fall.
If you tarry till you’re better, you will never come at all.
Not the righteous, not the righteous; sinners Jesus came to call…
Jesus ready stands to save you, full of pity, joined with power.
He is able, He is able. He is willing doubt no more.”