We know 2021 was a difficult year for many. But, you all made it through and you did not give up . . . I can say it also made us stronger, wiser, and bolder for the truth to be searched out and proclaimed. As we step into this brand new year, let us choose to make it grand — not by man’s standards, but by God’s. What is grand in God’s eyes is not necessarily the same for our human eyes.
This is what I’m keeping in mind for the year ahead:
- G od to be kept at the forefront of my mind according to Psalm 16:8:
“I have set the Lord always before me, because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” That’s how we run the race, expect all kinds of terrain.
- R eturn and Rest (with a quiet attitude) shall I be saved, “in quietness and confidence [trusting, secure, unmoved, undaunted, and certain] shall be your strength” (Isaiah 30:15).
- A ctive in sharing and caring for others that the Lord places in our path and meeting them at their need (mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually). In short, being about our Father’s business while fields are ripe unto harvest (Philippians 2:4, Jude 1:23).
- N ever give up… no matter how difficult it looks or is. The Lord is on your side and He will come through with grace to more than match your circumstance and to deliver you! Endurance and perseverance pays off as you look at the lives of all those who endured hardships in Biblical times. “The Lord is my Rock… my Fortress and my Deliverer” (2 Samuel 22:2, Psalm 144:2).
- D estroy the plans of the enemy and cover your household by using God’s Word, the sword of the Spirit (Psalm 91, Ephesians 6:10-18). Let praise be your weapon and worship your warfare. The Lord delights in the praises of His people because when the Lord “hears praises, He sees faith,” as one preacher said.
When we seek “first the Kingdom of Heaven and His righteousness, then all these things (even our desires) shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). I pray that we all won’t see or react after our natural senses, but after our spiritual senses. When it gets tough, I resolve remove myself out of the way and let the Lord pour His grace and strength to endure and to persevere. The Lord fill your cup with overflowing joy and give you a fulfilling year of being blessed while blessing others.
Stay well-oiled — spiritually and physically — and don’t neglect yourself!
Warmly from all of us,
Jeanette for the Essential Way team
