As we contemplate the new year we might feel a bit of trepidation, but God, who sees tomorrow with infinite clarity, whispers to us: “There is hope for your future” (Jeremiah 31:17). This is one of the many promises in the Bible that we can use as steppingstones as we walk into the new year. As unsure as the future may appear, we can commit all our ways to the Lord and trust that He will act on our behalf (Psalm 37:5). We will not be disappointed.
What are your hopes for the year ahead? Have you prayed for your goals for the year and even for the more distant future? Is there something that you would like to accomplish in 2025 that you could commit to proactive prayer now? If you believe that a project is God’s will, you can ask Him to pave the way ahead, to put the right people in your path, and to supply whatever you need. You can ask for wisdom in your decisions and preparations.
Be specific in your prayers. Have faith and get excited about all the wonderful things that will come to pass, as the Lord answers your prayers. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3 NIV).
This month’s magazine has practical and faith-building articles to help us meet the challenges of the months ahead. Our feature article, “In Partnership with God,” gives excellent counsel on how to set our priorities and align our goals, not by traditional measures of success, but rather by looking at the “bigger picture” of our lives and focusing on what pleases and glorifies God and is a blessing to others. As 2 Peter 3:18 says, may we “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity.”