What might it mean to travel light in the New Year? Is it possible? Can we let go of last year’s disappointments, and burdens, in order to lighten our steps? God says we can. In fact, He wants to carry each one of them Himself.
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 NKJV
Like many of you, last year was a difficult one for me. My husband is now in a care home, and the surgery I expected to go as planned, didn’t. Both are troubling to me, but not to the Lord. He wasn’t surprised at all. He knew what would happen long before we did. I am convinced He is faithful and have learned it is best to trust the Lord “whatever” comes our way.
Travel Light by Letting Go
God has a new plan for us in the New Year. Dragging last year’s heaviness into a new year makes no sense. The Savior has already set us free. Whatever regrets or unfinished work is not meant to carry over. Whether it’s health, or finances, or relationship troubles that linger, prayerfully seek the Lord. Choose to let go and look to the future. Look for the promise of a new thing that’s ready to spring up. By releasing what we wish would have happened, we are able to travel with the expectation of what lies ahead. God cares more about where we are going than where we’ve been.
Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:19 NKJV
Exhale and Breathe
To be intentional, a spiritual alignment with God is our first step. Start by taking a moment to exhale; to release whatever is holding onto you. Hand those things over to the Lord’s capable hands. Now, breathe deeply the grace God provides. It is His free gift to us, no strings attached. He will bear the weight of our heaviness far better than we can. I am convinced from Scripture that this is His will for His children.
Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 NKJV
Will we come?
Resolutions are Not the Answer
So many of us make New Year’s resolutions as the year begins. We intend to keep them but most will fail. And turn to disappointment. We’ll travel easier by not making resolutions. Instead, let’s be intentional in the New Year. Let’s seek to do what God prepares for us to do; to be aligned with His purposes. Peace is promised to all who show up.
Prayer:
Lord, guide my steps in the New Year. Help me release every burden I’ve carried over from last year. Teach me to walk lightly, free and forgiven. My desire is to align with Your grace and perfect plan for my life. Prepare my heart for the New Year. Amen
Coaches Corner:
Walking into a new thing is sometimes difficult. If you struggle to let go of what is in the past, a professional, Christ-centered, life coach can be of help. The first 30-minute session is free. https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/a-life-coach-wants-to-help-you-achieve-your-goals/
