Into the Fire

Many times when the old year is ebbing away, the goal-setters make their lists for the coming year. From increasing this or that to decreasing this or that, to starting something new or revamping something old, to shed unwanted pounds to firming up the current pounds, to renewing pledges or changing pledges, there are umpteen ways to reestablish goals. From simple to complex, detailed to sparsely defined, goals are a common commodity for the onset of a new year.

My naturally rebellious streak refuses to set goals for the New Year. I plant my feet and stop the notion(s) that something new will be required to move forward or to succeed. I know me. I'm a person who needs purpose, not ways to attain a purpose. I'm also a person who tends to wait for the spiritual directive because without it I find myself stymied in purposeless activity. No point.

I applaud all those who set goals and work diligently to attain or achieve them. Whatever motivates an individual to make strides in their private or public life and gives them positive incentives to accomplish anything can't be bad. It simply doesn't work for someone like me. Having said that, my way doesn't work for others.

I wish you all growth in the New Year. There are always thousands of obstacles to thwart our aims, but for those of us who believe in the divine directive: Nothing is impossible with God. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Over and over, through all the adult years of my life, I've had to remind myself of this truth. Not always an easy task. Being difficult doesn't negate its truthfulness.

Our beloved country is in a terrible mess. Corruption, cover-ups, and lies permeate an administration bound for destruction. We wait upon God's hand to discipline the nation and those who are perpetrating evil.

The world as always is in chaos until that same hand of God decides to put a stop to all of it. We wait.

In the meantime the hope in Him leads the forefront of all progress. Goals, purpose, divine directives – all of them – belong to Him and His ultimate decisions.

May the Lord Himself grant you a closer relationship with Him. May you pursue Him above all else and all others. May Jesus be your best friend, the Savior of your soul, the King of your heart, the lover of your soul. May the Holy Spirit be the real Counselor and Comforter to you. May the fullness of God keep you safe from all harm as you travel the ordained direction of your calling in 2015. In the Name, Authority, and Blood of Jesus, Amen.