A Purposeful 2021
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” - Jeremiah 29:11
Jeremiah 29:11 is a favorite verse of many people. It is a verse that reminds us that God’s intentions toward us are for good. This should encourage us in any situation. It is an important word for us to hear and know.
As often is the case with scripture, there are other things we can learn from this verse. One overlooked truth from this verse is that God does indeed have plans. God is purposeful. Do not think that God only reacts to things and tries to do the best He can with whatever happens. God is intentional. God has specific plans and acts according to those plans. If God does not approach life randomly, neither should we.
A new year offers us a wonderful opportunity for a reset. We should take advantage of that opportunity. As your new year begins, take time to reflect on 2020. Don’t let the past year be wasted. Instead, learn from all we have experienced. Even through all of the turmoil of the pandemic, thousands dying or sick, lost jobs and lost hope, we can still wake up and know that God has a plan! Praise God!
Then, commit to live a purposeful life in 2021! Don’t live the entire year without purpose, only reacting to what happens from day to day. Take time to prayerfully decide on a word or phrase for 2021 as something that will direct your approach to life for the next 12 months. My word for 2020 was “Intentional” and my word for 2021 is “Determined”. It gives you something to reflect on when you’re in prayer, at work, or at home. Better yet, begin to ask God what your focus should be in the coming year.
“A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
Remember, He has plans for you. Finding your purpose is empowering. God is purposeful, and He has created us for a purpose. Make 2021 a purposeful year!
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8
God Bless you all!