Sitting at my desk on January 1, 2021, I couldn’t help but think about the New Year. What will 2021 have in store for us? What does God have planned for me? What roads will I take?
At first, my mind began to wander, and it did not go to a good place. As I sat there, I almost started to panic. Then I remembered something my Pastor challenged us to do. He said,
“Write down the ten best things that happen for you in 2020.”
I decided to change my negative thinking and think about the good, positive, and joyful things experienced in 2020.
First on my list was that my son lived thru a terrible health issue. Second, no one in my family had Covid 19. Third, I worked all year and was able to help many people during the economic crisis due to Covid 19. The list went on and on until I had my ‘top 10’ best things that happened in 2020. Instead of dwelling on the sadness and loss of the year, I begin to think about the JOY of the Lord and the PEACE only He can give.
Nehemiah 8: 9-10 discusses the time after the children of Israel returned to Jerusalem from exile. The Israelites were listening to the ‘reading of the law.’ They were overcome with guilt and were weeping. The scripture reads,
And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the Lord your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. Then he said unto them, “Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” KJV
Think about all 365 days of 2020 that were holy to our Lord. He does not want us to grieve over the past but have His joy, which gives us strength no matter what we may face.
As I completed my list, my heart became so overwhelmed for my Savior Jesus Christ; all I wanted to do was Praise Him. Praise Him for His goodness. Praise Him for His grace. Praise Him for His mercy. Praise Him for His love. Praise Him for His peace. Praise Him for His hope. Praise Him for His direction. Praise Him for His protection. As I begin to Praise Him, my heart overflowed with the Joy of the Lord.
Isaiah 25:1 reads,
“O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name, for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.” KJV
Praising God and keeping my focus on Him brings an overwhelming peace and assurance that all is well —and all will be well in 2021. Take some time to reflect on the goodness of God. Write down the top 10 good things that happen for you in 2020. Praise God for all he is every day of your life. He will fill you with joy and peace that will carry your everyday.
Patti League
Lean into Jesus Ministries
#pattileagueblogs