“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the
LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11

There’s nothing inherently magical about turning the calendar to January 1st. (Yes, we know flipping calendar pages
shows our age!) Yet, many of us see this day as a special one that holds hope for a better year ahead, offers the
promise of a fresh start, and puts last year in the rearview mirror.

What if we spend time this week preparing for the New Year?

The New Year is a perfect opportunity to reflect, to build upon the lessons learned from the past year, and to start
afresh. Looking back should make us acutely aware that we aren’t the ones who control our lives or futures. Not even
close. Yes, there are consequences to our choices, but God is sovereign. He is ultimately in control. That recognition
should bring us comfort and peace as we go through our days. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the
LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11.

While events in any given year can surprise us, we know One who never is. God is never caught off-guard for even
one second! He was – and is – fully prepared to deal with all that last year left us and all that the New Year has to offer.
If we dig deeply enough, we can find moments of joy sprinkled throughout even our toughest year. It’s often about
our perspectives, and like it or not, it’s the roughest patches that deepen our faith and bring about the greatest
spiritual growth. Intentional reflection helps better equip us to move forward.

Let’s identify last year’s blessings and lessons and recall the moments of joy sprinkled amongst the tears. How can
we apply what we learned? How did our testimonies grow? Where did we see God at work? Taking time this week for
such introspection will prepare us as we draw closer to the New Year.

JOIN US FOR A WINTER STUDY

Discerning the Voice of God

STUDY OF THE BOOK BY PRISCILLA SHIRER

Led by: SHANNON GOLDBERG

Fridays, beginning January 24th.

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RESOURCES TO KICK YOUR NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT!

When we have a vibrant relationship with God, it dramatically changes the trajectory of our lives and those people we love. This box is designed to help women experience the life change that occurs from knowing Jesus personally and intimately.

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