Monday, December 28, 2015

New Year’s Resolutions: A devotion by Ann Broughton



Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:3 NIV).

Have you started your list of resolutions for the New Year? It is that time of year when most of us sit down and decide what we want to work on during the coming year. For most people the list includes; a healthy diet, losing weight, and exercise more. These are all very good goals because we are told in the Bible that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19), and in order to do His will we need to be as healthy as possible.
I would like to suggest another item that should be on that list. I suggest that you commit your works to God and let Him guide you. One of my favorite verses that has helped me when contemplating what God’s will for me is: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NAS). I believe that our own understanding about a situation may be clouded by fear of the unknown or fear of failure. Sometimes we forget that if it is God’s will, He will certainly guide us to use the abilities He has given us to do the works that He has set before us. God has given you special talents and abilities to be used to serve others. He is with you in the form of the Holy Spirit to guide you and strengthen you. Pray and ask God what His plans for you are during the New Year.  Then when an opportunity opens up for you to use your abilities, do not fear, but step out in faith knowing that God is with you and will help you.
Dear Lord,
As the New Year approaches I am reminded that I need to put you first in all of my goals for the future. Help me to step forward with faith when an opportunity arises to serve you. Let my first goal always be to do your will in my life.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen

Perseverance: A devotion by Ann Broughton

“ And not only this, but we also exult in tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance proven cha...