Happy New Year! 2025 has arrived- wow! New Years seems to bring reflection. I listened to a meditation on the Calm app the other day and it asked the listener to consider what you’d like to let go of that isn’t serving you any more as the year closed- a pattern, habit, way of thinking, judgement… this got me pondering…
A few years ago my close friends and I decided to choose a word for each new year instead of making New Year’s resolutions. The word chosen represents what we want to focus on for the year. As I considered what I want to let go of, I also thought about what I want to hold on to.
In 2025, I want to break up with doubt- especially doubt about God’s love. For some reason each time I hit a dip in the roller coaster of life, fear takes precedence and I doubt again. As I let go of this fear, I want to receive peace.
I was inspired by a dear friend memorizing Ps 27. She can recite the whole thing! I read it and could see the appeal so decided to give it a go. Over and over this psalm describes scary situations and how there is no need to be afraid.
Each time I work on memorizing the words, I’m encouraged by the psalmist’s confidence. In Ps 27:3 it says,”Though an army besiege me my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident.” This is the confident peace I want for 2025 and beyond. So the word I chose for 2025 is “peace”. I even found a cool sign at an after Christmas sale 😆
Another friend was facing unexpected surgery this week and I was wondering how to pray for her. Eph 3 came to mind, where Paul prays that his readers will have power to “grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ; and to know this love that surpasses all knowledge-“ (18-19).
Really knowing the depth of God’s love chases away doubt. As I grasp Jesus’ hand and take off into 2025, the scars I can feel in my palm are proof of His love. When I’m tempted to doubt because unexpected difficulties arise, I want to hold on tight and believe.
Happy New Year 🥳 May the gift of His peace fill our hearts & bring joy.
❤️❤️❤️
Blessings today and throughout the year, Wendy!!