Congratulations on reaching the end of another year! It is incredible to look back on a year and see what we have gone through. In a typical year, we go through many joyful events such as birthdays, holidays, vacations, graduations, new beginnings, etc. We also might experience arduous situations such as losing loved ones, employment loss, heartbreaks, health scares, etc. All of this is to say that we encounter a lot over 365 days. When we reflect on what 2023 had to offer, it can be surprising to see how quickly it might feel the year went.

While there could be a flood of emotions as we conclude a year, there are also many things to look forward to for the new year. A New Year offers a surplus of opportunities. Each day, we will have chances to take steps to accomplish our goals. We will also have opportunities to make a difference through our faith. There will be opportunities to study God’s Word and to share it with others. We need to realize that things might not go as planned. What do I mean? What happens if we do not progress on a goal or if someone is not as responsive as we would like to hear The Gospel? Do we give up, or do we remain resolute? 1 Corinthians 15:58 says, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast,  immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” What we see here is that if our work is for the Lord, it is not in vain. We are called to be unwavering in those efforts. When we think there is no hope in accomplishing our goals, that is when we need to be the most determined in not letting anything stop us.

With another year upon us, we know what to expect. To go through the good times and the tough times, we need to go about this journey with the mindset of one day at a time. We will not reach the end of 2024 just like that. Approach each day with a positive attitude, no matter how good or bad things might seem.