December 26, 2023
As we end out a year, there can be a healthy looking back and looking forward. Looking back over the year should prompt gratitude, and looking forward should prompt hope. As you think over the last twelve months, certainly there are many things you can thank God for: your family, health, protection, ministry, open doors, and blessings. And as you look forward to the new year, determine to set some goals to both work towards and pray for:
- Spiritual. Is there a new or different Bible reading plan you’d like to start? Any verses you’d like to memorize or studies you’d like to do?
- Marital. A clean slate for your marriage goals could be nailing down a weekly date time or small goals as a couple. Nothing big, just small steps on the road to a fulfilling marriage.
- Familial. How about a renewal in family devotions, whether that means you pray before bed together, read a chapter of the Bible or a kids Bible, or prayer requests before a meal. No right or wrong way, just keeping focus of family on God. How about nailing down 1-2 vacations this year? Discuss the plan and get it on the calendar before other activities crowd vacation time out.
- Personal Growth. Any books you’d like to read this year, or subjects of books (marriage, raising kids, preaching, etc.) you’d like to improve?
- Physical. Maybe you should try a new hobby this year. Any exercise or activities you’d like to see achieved?
Each of us can look back in gratitude for all God has accomplished in our lives, and we can look forward in hope of all we pray God will do in this coming year. May God bless each of you as you strive to serve Him in your life.