A New Year and a New Direction

As 2020 draws to an end and we look forward to new beginnings in 2021 I want to encourage everyone to include the Almighty God in your planning. He is omniscient and eternal therefore he knows the end at the same time as the beginning. It is counterintuitive that we rely upon our own judgement when we have a wise God who already knows the outcome of our lives and is willing to lead us when we submit ourselves to him.

For most of my life I have forged ahead with my dreams without consulting the Lord only to find my plans ended in disaster and amounted to nothing of real significance, not to mention the consequential heartache and pain I have suffered. If we want true happiness in our lives God offers himself as the conduit to success. Jesus said, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Mathew 6:33.

God is ready, willing and able to provide and all we have to do is sincerely ask. “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Mathew 7:7-11.

Ever since I fully surrendered my life to Jesus and chose to walk in total obedience to him, I have received so many good things from the Father. I have changed the way I see life and have found the true fulfillment and happiness I desired before but could never seem to find. The Lord has rewarded my faith with treasure beyond value. “When I called you, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me. Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar. Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes; with your right hand you save me. The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever – do not abandon the works of your hands.” Psalm 138:3, 6-8.

As you look ahead at 2021 and contemplate what true happiness is, include Jesus in your meditations. Invite him to lead you and show you the path that leads to your personal vindication. Allow the Lord to put his signature on your life and give you authentic purpose, joy and peace that transcends all human understanding.