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As I lingered over my morning cup of tea, staring out at the tall Eucalyptus trees draped in all their finery. My thoughts drifted back to the beginning of the year. Already the year seems to be whizzing by at incredible speed. Like waiting at a train crossing, watching the train zoom by. As the year commenced many resolutions were made, mine included. Determinations were high, this would be the year to lose weight, quit an addiction, or get in better physical condition. Resolutions were made to pray and read the Word more, to grow spiritually. For others there was a project to finish, one to begin, or a dream in their heart. This will be the year to get on track. The start of 2006 found us filled with renewed hope.
On December 31, 2005, I wrote in my journal three areas I wanted to make strides in over the next twelve months. One area I have taken some small steps, not at all what I hoped. Another area I am taking action, working hard and feeling pretty good about my accomplishments. The third area, something I have been battling for a long time. Those unwanted pounds that I can’t seem to get rid of. I am absolutely taking steps backwards. Apparently my hand to mouth routine is winning. The area I am losing ground in tends to weigh heavier (no pun intended) on my mind than the areas I am making progress in. I am learning to be careful when evaluating my goals. To resist falling into the trap of defeat, throwing in the towel and giving up, because my progress falls short of what I expected.
As I read over my list I noticed it was a similar list to the one I made at the beginning of the previous year, and probably the year before. How do I stop this merry-go-round, going around in circles and not getting anywhere? Then I had one of those suddenly moments, like a fog lifting allowing the light to shine through. I was leaving God out of this little plan of mine.
The fruition of hopes and dreams starts with prayer. Seeking God’s guidance and praying for His will. I’m finding during this process God brings to light areas of my life I need to deal with first. You know those things we like to skip over, pretend they don’t exist. Clearing out the clutter inside, sort of like spring cleaning, not our favorite task, but oh so necessary. He empowers us to deal with those areas, creating the freedom for accomplishing the new.
Allowing God first place and loving Him with our whole heart, allows His blessings and wisdom to flow into our lives. With God leading the way we will accomplish our hopes and dreams beyond our highest expectations. The renewed hope felt at the beginning of 2006 can become a reality when our hope begins with Him. I love this pearl of wisdom from the apostle Paul.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 NKJV
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