What a year. 2020 met us with the hopes of new beginnings, changes in diet, travel plans, personal and professional goals, family traditions, and excitement for a fresh start.
Never in a million years would I have imagined that I would be writing an article at the end of a year that included nine months and counting of a world pandemic… not a pandemic in the United States of America, but the World.
Let that sink in.
As I type, I’m struggling to find the words to encourage every person who’s reading this right now. While I’m not about to share some secret message of assurance that 2021 will be different, but I’m sure that what we have endured through this year has definitely equipped humanity to:
- Live life to the fullest.
- Love deeper.
- Cherish family and friends more.
- Appreciate what you have without complaints about what you don’t have, and,
- Trust God in a way that you never have before.
Does that sum it up for the most part?
Make Preparation for a Happy New Year
But as I ponder this year and think about the fact that I’m now on the last day of December, my posture of prayer and thought has been, “Lord, prepare me for YOU.” Yes. Read that again – God, prepare me for You because what I do know is that if I have YOU, I have everything I need.
Everything that was deemed ‘normal’ in my world was changed. I went through every human cycle of being uncomfortable that led me back to what I already knew. I needed to be reminded not to place more value on temporary people, places, or things. We are ‘passing through’ and this is not a final destination.
The earthly pause that we all took from every sense of normalcy forced us to prioritize what was important in a way like never before. So for this, I won’t allow the shock of this year to dampen my spirits for the new year to come. Yes, the year in its totality was difficult, but God still showed me that He is very much so in control. He stated in His Word – He has not left me or forsaken me.
A Happy New Year Requires the Right Diet
This year did not rob me of God’s blessings even though it was difficult at times to see. I never hesitated to say with confidence when asked, ‘How are you doing?” I would reply, “It’s been difficult BUT I am grateful for God keeping me during this time.”
God was and is my source for life and my well being. I never went hungry, I kept employment, I had shelter and I had friends, family, and co-workers checking on me constantly. Unfortunately, that was not the same narrative for a lot of people worldwide. And while I’m grateful, my heart can’t help but grieve for the many people who have not been able to sustain themselves or their families.
To put it simple…I would say that I’m a pretty RICH girl because to me, true wealth can be found in the intangible components of life. Going into this new year may easily feel intimating not knowing if things are going to get worse or better, but the very thing that is going to determine your new year is what you are feeding your mind and spirit.
So, What’s the Play Call?
Your spiritual diet will be a key factor in seeing the new year in a positive way despite the previous year. You did it before, right? So, you can do it again! Here are 3 play calls that will help you stay positive and encouraged as you enter into a year of uncertainty.
- “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” ~ Philippians 4:8
- “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” ~ 2 Timothy 1:7
- “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in you.” ~ Isaiah 26:3
Have a happy new year!
