As we approach 2018, we reflect on 2017. We think about pain and joy. The tears we cried and the laughter we shared with our loved ones. For many, 2017 has been difficult or tragic year. We remember the lives lost in the hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, and the mass shooting of Las Vegas. Many also lost their homes during these natural disasters and fires. We may have faced tragedies, hardships, or pain. We may have faced moments of success and happiness. We may have faced failures and disappointments. But, what will we face in 2018? For many, this question is daunting or terrifying.
So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
– Hebrews 13:6 KJV
Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence. – Ephesians 3:12 NLT
But, as those redeemed by the the blood of Jesus Christ, we can confidently face 2018 with boldness. We can trust God with 2018. We can place 2018 in God’s hands, knowing that He will be with us to guide us and protect us. We can give God our goals and dreams, knowing that He listens to us and answers us.
The psalmist wrote, “When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.” Psalm 138:3 NIV 2 Corinthians 3:12 NIV says,
“Therefore, since we have such a hope, we are very bold.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT says “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you being with us through 2017. Please continue to fill our lives with Your presence. As we enter 2018, please give us the boldness to love others as You do, to reach out to those in need, to share the gospel with others, to become more like You, and to accomplish Your plans for ours lives. Amen.
