I’m ready for 2013 to be over. It was a rough year and I’m
ready for a fresh start.
At the same time, there were blessings.
God stretched and tested me this year. It was unpleasant,
and at times, downright painful, but even in the midst, I knew God had a
purpose. I knew He was refining me and correcting me, and it was part of His
plan for something better.
The blessings came in knowing He never left me.
Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. Lamentations 3:21-22 NIV
And He never let the trials overtake me.
Now, I’m looking ahead in anticipation, waiting to see what
God has planned.
Thankful for new beginnings.
A new year and new possibilities.
And then I remembered…we don’t have to wait for the year to
change on the calendar.
God’s new beginnings come each day with new chances to
experience His love.
Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:23 NLT
Where do you find yourself today? Are you ready for a new
year to begin?
In Christ,
You know, I have heard that from a lot of people this year. It makes me wonder if maybe we are all just getting older and we see more trials...or maybe that He's coming soon? I don't know, just rambling. BUt, I hope the New Year will reveal His amazing faithfulness again...and again! Even in the refining, we know He is faithful...grateful with you in and for that. Happy New Year, Laura!
ReplyDeleteHmmm, I wonder if it's that as we grow closer to Him, we are able to see the trials and blessings, and not just think it's a good or bad day? Thanks Dawn, I'm always pleased to read your comments! Happy New Year!
DeleteI have been too focused on my lack this year. I want to make a greater effort to see Jesus in every moment of the day, even in the mess and the trials. Yes, I am looking forward to a new year! Blessings!
ReplyDeleteI'm pondering the beginning of 2014. Not sure what I'm feeling right now. (For one thing, this New Year's Eve I'm battling a migraine, and that is fogging my thinking!)
ReplyDeleteBut, God gave me a *word* for 2014, and I just know that it's going to stretch me way out of my natural outlook on life. I'm revealing it next Monday, but I'm still pondering what it's going to mean for me.
So, I guess I'm a little nervous, a little excited - but always sure that God is going to go with me every step of the way.
Happy New Year, and GOD BLESS!
Beautiful insight from the Word, Laura, about how fresh starts come at us every single day, not just with the New Year.
ReplyDeleteSo in that spirit, on this Eve of 2014, I wish you: "Happy New Day!"
Visiting from The Weekend Brew... God bless you!
~HBHW
http://inthehandsofthehealer.blogspot.com
Definitely had some trials in 2013, but all years have their ups and downs I suppose. I am feeling hopeful and excited about the new year!
ReplyDeleteHe will complete the work He has begun, in you, in me, in us all!
ReplyDeleteI feel encircled by many who have, seemingly, had a similar year. God holds us near as we draw near to Him. Oh, how grateful I am to have Him.
ReplyDeleteSome of the comments above spur interest in the possibilities of these whys I have wondered about as well...while traveling through each year. Glad I came by, Laura. May your day be filled with the richest of blessings.
Caring through Christ, ~ linda
All we CAN count on is His faithfulness. I get a little distressed during nearly every year I can ever remember. And I ain't a young 'un. So, now entering the year that will put me in my next mental, physical, getting-older phase of life. Only the Lord is the One I can count on forever. Thanks much!
ReplyDeleteSomething about being a mom, this part of the scripture really spoke to me: "Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed" - it's our faith in the Hope of His promises that is like water that puts out the daily fires that threaten to consume us! Praying you have a year of refreshing after refining!
ReplyDelete