As I’m writing this, the realization that the year is almost over has hit me. In just a few short days it will be the new year. I know some people are probably already thinking about their “New Year Resolutions”. Some, may already have them done. I’ve never been one to do those. I use to but I quickly realized I never stuck to them. So, instead of doing that, at the end of the year, I prefer to reflect on this past year and talk to God about my goals and plans for the next year.

As I think of this past year, there have been some ups and downs. I mean, who would’ve thought that life happened? There has been heartache and pains I don’t want to go through again. Praise God, I made it through them! There have also been many blessings. So much has happened that I’m extremely thankful and grateful for. You know, there’s nothing wrong with looking back or reflecting back, just don’t stay in your past. God has so much more for you!

So, as this year is coming to an end and the next one is getting ready to start, here are some reminders.

Jeremiah 29:11 - “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Proverbs 16:9 - The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Proverbs 3:5-6 - 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 straight your paths.

As you can see, God has a plan for us. He has made a way for us. Of course, we will need to seek Him and talk to him about it. So, as I reflect back on this year, I see the growth in myself. I see the things God has set before me. And I smile because I know it’s His plan in my life. Don’t be discouraged or disappointed if things didn’t go the way you planned. Rest and know God has a plan just for you!

Maybe some of you are more than ready for this year to end. We’ve all had different walks this year. And perhaps some of us realize this has been our greatest year ever. Regardless of this past year for you, this next year can always be better. If this past year wasn’t the best, seek God and allow Him to show you how to make this coming year, your best year yet. If this past year was your greatest year ever, know that God can do more than we can ask, think, dream, or imagine! Either situation, this coming year, is bound to be our best year ever!

Isaiah 43: 18-19 - Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

It doesn’t matter how “good” or “bad” this past year has been. God can make a way anywhere we are. Any walk we are doing. Any season we are in. God is there and has made a way. Let’s not get stuck with this past year or any other time for that matter. And let’s allow God to show us His plans for us in this new year.