“I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me.” -Psalm 3:5

Sis, it’s the last day of 2023. WE MADE IT!

Over the past few days, I’ve seen many people reflecting on this year – the ups, the downs, and everything in between – and I can’t help but do some reflecting of my own:

• I’ve laughed many belly hurting laughs.
• I’ve cried many tears of sadness.
• I’ve witnessed answered prayers in my life and in the lives of my loved ones.
• I’ve experienced and seen the beauty and impact of authentic Christian community – both in my life and in those around me.
• I’ve seen God grow me and build character in me (and I thank God He’s still doing so).

But throughout everything I faced this year – the good, the bad, and the ugly – it all boils down to this truth:

The Lord Has Sustained Me.

Each night we slept this year and each morning we woke up was an example of God’s sustaining power at work in our lives (Psalm 3:5). And the same God that sustained us in 2023 is the same God that will sustain us in 2024.

And although we may not have done everything right this year, we can be confident that each morning brings new mercies (Lamentations 3:22-23) – a new opportunity to strengthen and grow in our walk with God and to walk in what He’s called us to do.

So as we move into 2024, let our heart’s posture and prayer be this:

• The Lord’s will and nothing else – no matter the cost.

But, sis, I’m not going to lie to you – being in God’s will isn’t always easy. It’ll require us to let go of some things, and it requires sacrifice, dying to self, and it’s often the unpopular route.

But over the years, I’ve learned that God’s route is better than anything I may try to force for myself (Proverbs 16:9).

So as we stand firm on the promise that the Lord will sustain us in the new year, let’s also commit to letting go of the hinderances that prevent us from growing in our relationship with God. Because our love for God, and our desire to be in His will, must be greater than what He wants us to let go of.

We can do this, sis! I’m rooting for us, and I’m walking right alongside you.

Pause & Reflect

• How has the Lord sustained you this year?
• What do you need to let go of heading into the new year?
• What’s hindering you from growing in your walk with God?
• Where is God looking for your yes?

Resources

Here’s a song that has uplifted me many times this year. I pray it encourages you also!