The early days of a new year often prompt reflection on what has passed and anticipation of what may be to come. Regrets and resolutions can go hand in hand as we seek to live our lives to the best of our ability. For those of us who believe we have an example of a life well lived in Jesus Christ, but that is not an easy model to follow. So, we often fail to live up to the expectations that we set ourselves, which can lead to frustration and disappointment. In other words, to regrets, but God knows that the path is hard for us, and he forgives our stumbles and mistakes, encouraging us to resolve that we will try again, and again.
So, in the early days of a new year unfolding let us take heart, learn from the past and trust in God for the future, for whatever we do, whatever we say he is beside us and will guide us if we allow him to support us; he will give us comfort in times of challenge, or when we lose heart.
This version of Psalm 23 from the Passion Translation, Poetry on Fire, may be helpful to keep us feeling close to God.
The Good Shepherd
The Lord is my best friend and my Shepherd.
I always have more than enough.
He offers a resting lace for me in his luxurious love.
His tracks take me to an oasis of peace, the quiet brook of bliss.
That’s where he restores and revives my life.
He opens before me pathways to God’s pleasure,
And leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness
So that I bring honour to his name.
Lord, even when your path takes me through
The valley of deepest darkness,
Fear will never conquer me, for you already have!
You remain close to me and lead me through it all the way.
Your authority is my strength and my peace.
The comfort of your love takes away my fear.
I’ll never be lonely, for you are near.
You become my delicious feast
Even when my enemies dare to fight.
You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit,
You give me all I can drink of you until my heart overflows.
So why should I fear the future?
For I’m being pursued only by your goodness and unfailing love
Then afterwards – when my life is through,
I’ll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you.
Prayer. Keep me in your loving presence God, as I renew my resolve to follow the ways that you desire us to live. Whatever my mood or whatever life holds in store, may my faith stay strong.
Painting ‘God’s healing embrace by Kerstin Berthold.
