As I packed up the final box of Christmas decoration today I felt a little blue. All of my decoration was packed up a week ago except for one tree. I do this every year. I hold on to one tree telling myself I just want to enjoy the lights a little longer.
With the decorations all up I am forced to look ahead and plan for the new year. I don't make resolutions... gave up on them years ago.When I think of the new year and my priorities I am always reminded of the past year and always a little disappointed with what I have accomplished. My intentions were good but somehow I always get side tracked. It saddens me to think I have not made the most of every opportunity.
I know that God won't settle for second place. Anything that pushes him out of first place actually becomes an idol. Satan has a way of squeezing little things into life that demands attention. The easiest thing in the world is to drift through life in a vague, thoughtless manner.
God says there's a better way. Ephesians 5:15-17
Look carefully then how you walk. Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise-sensible, intelligent people; Making the very most of the time, buying up each opportunity- because the days are evil.
Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is (Amplified Bible)
My prayer is to live this year purposefully and firmly grasping the will of the Lord.
Linking to Spiritual Sundays Drop by for many uplifting posts or to add a post.
Sweet memories of family time..and blessings for a year ahead full of God's promises...Thank you for sharing. And may we all keep in our hearts to do what the Lord has us to do...& not to be idle or caught up in all the "busy-ness" that distracts.
ReplyDeleteBlessings & Aloha!
Thank you for stopping by and your kind comment.
I was reminded of the phrase "redeeming the time" as I read your post. I too love reading from the Amplified Bible.
ReplyDeletePurpose! That is a word the Lord keeps bringing to my attention! Thanks for this great post.
ReplyDeleteWe all fall short- He knows this. All He asks is that we love Him and keep trying. Not only does the devil take the time, he likes to take the wind out of sails telling us that we have wasted our time on living day to day. All the time you spent serving others, you were serving Him.
ReplyDeleteHugs for a new year and a better walk- growing daily in faith and love- Tete
Wow. What a powerful post. Thanks for sharing that scripture!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great scripture to proclaim over the new year! Good for you. I like the Amp translation of this.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing those thoughts for the New Year. Blessings ~
ReplyDeleteHi Annette,
ReplyDeleteI think you're sharing a vision that I can certainly identify with; to live this year with purpose and passion.
Thank you for sharing inspired words.
Blessings and peace.
MTJ
thanks for this post...☺
ReplyDeleteI like how you are going to live your life this year. I would like to live mine like that ,too.
ReplyDeleteDottie
Thank-you for sharing this scripture form Ephesians,I needed to read this.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless,
Ginger
Hi: Thank you for reminding us of what is really important. I would like to purpose my life to live putting God first. Blessings, Martha
ReplyDeleteThat was a very good post. Really makes me think. Have a blessed Sunday.
ReplyDeleteWe still have not taken our tree down. Tomorrow it must go. It is always sad to put everything away for another year, but the year passes by so quickly that it will be time to put it up again before we know it. You made some very important points in this post. Things we all should consider. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Charlotte
Excellent, thought provoking post. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThis year we will fulfill God's purpose in our lives!!!
ReplyDeleteHave a great 2011
"Firmly grasping the will of God." Wonderful words! I too, kept up our little tree to enjoy the lights for a few extra days. Everything looks a bit bare right now...Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful thoughts. I still have some of my winter garland up so that the rooms don't look too bare. Pray you have a blessed week. Debbie
ReplyDelete"The easiest thing in the world is to drift through life in a vague, thoughtless manner"...I admit I tend to do this more in the winter...the snow and cold tend to box me in. This post was a good reminder to live purposely every day...rain, snow or sun.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your post. We all new to renew ourselves to our maker. The new year is a good time to reinforce what we know. He is our Lord and through him we can do all things. Love, Ginger
ReplyDeletesooo cute! i have a black & white shih tzu too. (looks like what is looking out the window?) Mine is named Charlie - he too shows up in many pics cuz he likes to be in the middle of what i am doing. thanks for popping over to say hello! I'd love to have you back to follow me? & perhaps join my Cottage Flora Thursday's? I am looking for other garden lovers who are interested in sharing or viewing Cottage Garden Flowers and Landscape. I just can't wait till spring...& hosting this party is a fantastic way to buy us some time!
ReplyDeletexoxo
~tracie