As we stand on the high point of a new year, I pause to reflect – both on the fears that challenge us and the dreams that stir deep within.
Imagine you standing with me. 🙂
Let’s ponder together…
What do you say?
Shall we let this year be one of surrender, courage, and trust as we invite God to guide our steps toward His love and purposes and THROUGH our fears and dreams?!
(It can be ‘hell in the hallway’ so let’s together keep it moving…)
Top 3 Fears: Acknowledging Them is Half the Battle
It’s natural to face fears as we step into the unknown. Whether it’s the fear of death, the pain of separation, or the loss of stability, God invites us to bring these fears into His presence.
Psalm 34:4 reminds us:
“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.”
This year, let’s seek Him in our moments of uncertainty and trust in His promise to deliver us.
Top 3 Desires: Aligning with God’s Will
We all long to love and be loved, to find a place we belong, and hopefully to leave a legacy that honours God’s will rather than our own.
These desires are deeply human, but they are also deeply Divine. They point us to our Creator, who has planted these longings in our hearts for His glory.
It’s early in the morning on January 1, 2025 as I pray for my family like a momma bear, and I’m reflecting on Ephesians 3:20:
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.”
God’s plans for our lives far exceed our fears and our dreams. As we align with His will, we find fulfillment beyond measure.
4 Keys to Battling Fear
- Fix Your Eyes on God’s Dream
Romans 8:28 assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even in our pain and confusion, God is weaving His redemptive plan. Keep your focus on His promises rather than the present uncertainties.
- Understand His Love for You
Ephesians 3:18-19 encourages us to grasp how wide, long, high, and deep His love truly is. His love is not dependent on our circumstances; it is eternal and unshakable. Let His love be your anchor.
- Replace Your Agreements – from Fear to Love
When fear speaks lies, replace them with God’s truth. Don’t dwell on the enemy’s armor; instead, focus on the God who empowers you to face every battle. Speak His promises aloud, such as:
- “I am a child of God” (John 1:12).
- “He will never leave me nor forsake me” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
- “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
- Ask God Questions
Cultivate a relationship with God by asking Him: “What do You want me to know about this situation?” Learning to hear His voice in the small things strengthens your ability to trust Him in the big things.
4 Voices: Discernment for the Year Ahead
In a world filled with competing voices, discernment is key. There are four primary voices that influence us:
- The World’s Voice – Seeks to conform us to its values.
- The Flesh’s Voice – Tempts us with self-centered desires.
- The Devil’s Voice – Speaks lies and accusations to paralyze us.
- God’s Voice – Leads us in truth, love, and peace.
This year, resolve to discern and block out the first three and turn up the volume on God’s voice.
How?
Spend intentional time in Scripture, prayer, and quiet reflection, letting His Word shape your thoughts and actions. (If you find it hard to be still, go for a walk in the countryside. Walk and talk with God as you go. This has been a life changer for me.)
A Prayer of Blessing for the New Year
Heavenly Father,
As we step into this new year, we surrender our fears to You—our fears of death, separation, and displacement. Fill us with Your peace and remind us that You hold all things in Your hands.
Lord, we also lift up our desires to You. Help us to love and be loved as You designed. Lead us to the places where we can find belonging and purpose. Teach us to live for Your legacy, not our own.
Guide us to keep our eyes on Your promises, to understand the depth of Your love, and to replace the lies we’ve believed with Your truth. Help us to hear Your voice above all others as we follow You into this year.
We thank You for Your faithfulness, for the plans You have for us, and for the victory we already have in Christ. May this year be one of transformation and trust as we walk with You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As you reflect on the year ahead, may you find courage in God’s promises, clarity in His voice, and joy in His unchanging love. Let this year be a testimony to His goodness as you move from fear to faith, from longing to fulfillment, and from striving to surrender.
Blessings to you and yours in this new season!
My gift for you:
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Merri Ellen Giesbrecht
Life Coach & Spiritual Director / www.merriellen.com
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