As we are preparing and planning for the closure of 2018 and anticipating the arrival of 2019, let us reflect on the events and experiences of the past year. For many this past year has brought joy: birth of children, new houses, new career paths, marriage, and countless other joys. The year has also brought sadness and the need for comfort: deaths, loss of finances, loss of relationships, and more. But in the midst of these journeys in life we have a constant strength that is unwavering which Christ. Paul states it best in the letter to the Galatians
Galatians 5: 22-23 (KJV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
God’s love and patience is part of the fruit of the spirit. But we also see that in enduring the harshness of life, God is able to provide comfort to us.
As we enter this New Year, allow this to be our constant prayer:
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
May we enter the New Year with hope and acknowledge the difficulties that will present themselves, but be assured that God will give us peace that will transcend all rational thought and logic.
I John 4: 18
18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.
Thank you for being a blessing to me this past year. May God continue to work through us for His Glory.
Happy New Years.