It's Today And What's Ahead That Counts!

Whew, where did the time go? A year certainly I can say I'm glad is behind me, but I believe it's valuable to re-view and remember in order, first to give thanks, then to realize we are called to go forward, not dwelling on present or past difficulties, or perceived failures.


When we truly believe that "the steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord" then, can we actually say we failed, .. or was it a time of testing our metal (faith)? I can say I would like to have realized a better outcome in a particular area of challenge, but today, I am at peace with where I believe God has me.

Take stock of last year only to improve this year and allow God to renovate what might have been damaged or even destroyed. Some things need to die, but often we are just in need of a renewed vision to propel us forward to something better, and God is a restorer! "The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Jesus came that we may have life and that more abundantly (quantity and quality)" John 10:10. We, by choices, can invite what God has for us, by obedience to what His Word says. We cannot say as Bing Crosby says, "I did it my way". It has to be God's way, the truth and the life (by Jesus Christ) to reach agreement .. repentance, "by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God ..". We cannot earn it by doing all the good things on earth.

Ask Him today if you are in right relationship, then listen for that voice of the Holy Spirit that will let you know, if something is standing between you and God, and if you're willing to repent of that, you will find yourself with a sense of His peace, knowing you are either ready or knowing what it is you need, to be ready.  Cast your cares on Him, because He cares for you.

Prayer is simply talking to God. Faith is simply believing God. Believing God means you're willing to agree with Him and do what He says. Forgiveness from God is simple, as simple as being offered a cookie and you accept it. Forgiveness of God then means you have the power and choice to forgive others. Without forgiving others we do not receive forgiveness from God (He said that, I didn't), but then comes the peace of God that defies understanding, and His joy follows.

We have a new day and new days to look forward to!