Hello, 2018!
Does anyone else think it is absolutely bananas that the New Year literally started on a Monday; like the first official work day?? Is that just me...probably so but I mean, think about it. I know that may seem silly but I was totally blown away and somewhat satisfied when the first day of the New Year started on the first day of the week. It made me feel like I have this new year, new work week and fresh start from the beginning. Not like a Wednesday or Thursday. That kills me because then I have a new planner with 3 days, no information on them, yada yada...I have this thing with calendars and planners and days of the week etc. My husband calls me strange. I am (LOL). But I digress!!
Last week I was asked to record a quick video segment on 2018 and the New Year for an organization I belong to that would air today. I wasn’t able to participate, but as I sat thinking, I heard two questions that simply asked “Why are people looking for something that isn’t lost? Why are people searching for things they already have?” OK, Lord. I hear you.
It is so easy to fall into the habit of recapping the former year and swearing off all that you have done that wasn’t beneficial. You walk out of the year one way, walk into the new year another way. You tell the world that you are looking for love, beauty, wealth, recognition…all the things that people feel they lack. But in Bible, Paul writes that God can do exceedingly, abundantly above all we ask or think. In Ephesians chapter 3, Paul discusses the mystery of God and the eternal purpose of God for us; the boldness and confidence that we have been given. Ephesians 3:16 clearly gives us assurance that God will grant us with the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. There is nothing that we do not have access to through the Father; so I ask you,
What are you looking for?
There is no need to start your year by claiming lack and saying you are looking for some thing or someone when what you need is right where you are. Stop looking for what is right in front of you! Gain perspective by using the tools you have been given. Use the access you have been given by reaching out to God to ask for discernment and clarity in order to acknowledge what you have.
Don’t let the party end because today is the proverbial “Monday.” It is the first Monday of the first week of THE NEW YEAR!! The party isn't over! You take the party with you everywhere you go. Stand up tall, be who you are called to be and walk into 2018 like a Boss! You should. He has given us the keys to the Kingdom. We must carry ourselves as the sons and daughter’s of the most high God and we act accordingly. Happy New Year! Now walk right on in to the party with your own balloons and let's get it started. Remember that God loves you. He loves all of us and His love is so reckless that wherever we are, He is coming after us right there in that place. He is coming for us according to the exact same eternal purpose that He purposed in Christ Jesus (Eph 3:11) Grab onto that and go...
I love you and I hope you have enjoyed the first day of 2018.
Happy New Year!