We are entering the final days of 2019.
If you’re like most people, you may be considering resolutions you want to make for the new year.
Or maybe you’re starting to make a list of all of the goals you want to complete in 2020.
I know. I feel it, too. I look at all of the bad habits indulged in this year and I want to resolve to eradicate every single one from my life – by March 1.
I see all of the goals I didn’t complete–and all of the time I wasted–and I want to make a detailed plan to complete every single thing on my list (and maybe add ten more, because I’m sure if I managed my time better I could do them all).
We can’t do that. If we do, we’re setting ourselves up for disappointment, failure, and frustration. When we’re focusing on fixing all of our shortcomings and doing all of the things we think we need to do to have a good, successful life, we’re going to end up feeling pressured and agitated when life doesn’t go as planned.
There’s a better place to put our focus. On God.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3 NIV)
When we start there–with our focus on God–we can feel peace as we trust Him and live our lives each day.
When we start the new year with our focus on God, He’ll give us the wisdom we need to decide what habits we need to work on changing – with His help. He’ll help us discern what our goals should be and give us the energy and drive to complete them.
Starting the new year like this will allow us to begin 2020 with joy in our hearts, excited about all of the opportunities and possibilities the year will bring, instead of weighed down with all of our own demands and expectations.
Now that’s a good way to start.
Happy New Year!
“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 NIV)
Are you excited about the new year, or are you stressed about what you “should” do in 2020? How can focusing on God help you to begin the new year well and enjoy the inevitable ups and downs 2020 will bring?
I’m very excited about the new year. Like you, I’m still learning to find a good balance with everything I want to do vs what I realistically can do. Praying you have a great 2020!
Thanks, Susan! Yes, it is exciting to think about all of the possibilities in a new year. Praying you find that balance and accomplish great things in 2020! ~Robyn