Listen to this dream - Genesis 37:6
Over the years I’ve said a lot and a lot have been said over the issue of New Year goals and intentions. In fact, I weary now of all the chatter, that mostly it’s just that – chatter. I quite prefer action over and above the noise. Some would say I’m getting older and losing my sense of adventure or maybe I’m just going through a challenging phase. I might go with the latter and strongly refute the first. Older, yes, losing my sense of adventure, no. But yes, challenging seasons tend to alter our outlook some and so I find myself entering this New Year a bit more pensive, if you will. I know perspective is important so I’ve taken that into consideration and adjusted my outlook to reflect someone who is hopeful and forward thinking. That said, I’m grateful to God for growth opportunities this year and look forward to changes and momentum.
In keeping with a positive and fresh perspective for the New Year, I think it’s important, and necessary even, to surround myself with a forward thinking or visionary projection to center and encourage my thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in order to see the growth I expect. You see pensive isn’t a bad thing, it gives me pause and opportunity to sit and sort my thoughts and allow for clarity and order to emerge from the muddle and confusion of the past months. Unarguably, we are so much more empowered to move ahead or dive in with a clearer head and a brighter picture. Such is the power of a vision. So I’ve sat and prayed and ruminated, and I’m ready to see the bigger picture. A picture that includes a path that is winding – some ups and downs surely, but hope springs eternal because there’s room for respite. A pastor I admire have asked his congregation to “DARE” again. D – dream again. A – ask again. R – risk again. E – engage again. I think it’s a great acronym to embrace as we step into 2026. Sometimes life can stifle your dreams with challenges and struggles that leave you feeling beat down and exhausted. A new year presents the opportunity to put the last year and it’s disappointments behind us and to believe for better things once more. God’s Word says we have not because we ask not and when we do ask it is with the wrong motives. Well Lord, here I am asking. Purify my motives and give me a fresh vision and a fresh start. Give me new hope and strength for the things I desire for Your glory this year. All fear aside, because I have power, love, and self discipline, I’m embracing faith and taking the first step even when I can’t see the whole staircase. No risk, no reward. Thankfully, God’s with us. Lastly, I have determined to engage the Word of God and engage with others this year. It’s so easy to isolate and/ or hide behind a screen or situations when things get challenging. Been there, done that. It hasn’t been an effective strategy. This new year calls for a new strategy. I’m choosing to engage and I hope you do too.
My friends, pop the champagne, let’s drink to a year of steps ordained by the Lord so that we can navigate life with wisdom, grace, and authenticity. I embrace this opportunity for new lens, renewed purpose, and joyful strength to face whatever is before me. I see growth, transformation, and momentum as I move forward daily by God’s grace. While my objective reality is skewed toward uncertainty and distractions, I choose to focus my faith on the One I know to be true and present with me and so I claim a path forward of peace and purpose. 2016 is my year to bloom where I’m planted and to sow the seeds I gather along the way: seeds of patience, grace, wisdom, humility, compassion, kindness, and gentleness. It’s not too late to get your heart and mind right. Join me. Our reward will be great!
runningwithfaith 