1 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Here we are again… at the end of another year! No doubt, we have all encountered our own share of joys, triumphs, challenges and tribulations. Surely no one can live 365 consecutive uneventful days! There will be highs and lows for each of us. But the one thing that is indisputable is the availability of God’s spirit… His strength and power readily offered to each of us.
So often, we say, “This is so hard! I don’t know how I will make it!” We worry, fret, and operate in fear. The Apostle Paul’s words for Timothy work equally well for us. God has His hand on us…He is equipping us with fortitude and courage. With God by our side - His Holy Spirit living within us - nothing is beyond what we can handle. Because of His spirit of power, love and self-discipline, we are able to endure hardships, embrace victories… and keep a level head through all of it!
As we start a new year, I encourage you to make sure you are equipped for what lies ahead. Don’t enter 2013 without the power and strength of God to undergird you. Take some time right now to pause and ask Him to be with you every step of the way. In the words of scripture, put on the full armor of God, so that each minute of the day is as full and rich as possible.
There’s one more thing… remember to be grateful. Thank God for all He does for you… the blessings, care, power and encouragement He provides. Thank Him for giving us Jesus… and for sending His Holy Spirit to be your constant companion. And also thank God for the other people who come in and out of your life… for brief encounters and lasting relationships… for opportunities to bless and serve… and for those who enrich your life in His name.
Make this year the one you truly live with purpose. Realize your full potential with God as the driving force within you. Operate humbly under His power, and remember to be grateful in all circumstances. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating… with God’s power behind us, we are stronger than we think! Make 2013 the year you fully embrace this thought… and live by example. Happy New Year’s Eve… and God bless you!
©2012 Debbie Robus
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