The beginning of each new year brings with it a myriad of emotions that can lead us to want to improve ourselves, to renew our commitments and to set new resolutions and goals. However, God knows full well that these purposes we set are often based on the desires of our human nature, rather than being guided directly by the Holy Spirit.

When we seek or pursue something that God has not called us to do, we are very likely doing so in our own strength; this makes us weary, because it has more to do with the power of the will than with the power of the Holy Spirit working in us. Christ gives us a purpose when He commissions us and proposes to us a specific task: to promote His kingdom and make His glory known.

This year, if we want to be people who act under the power of the Holy Spirit, let's start by saying a prayer. Let us ask the Lord to reveal His will and desires for our lives through His Word, and let us also ask Him to show us where He wants us to focus our attention.

God's Word is the best guide as we begin the year, because it is alive and powerful, it is active and not passive. It is so sharp that it penetrates to the depths of soul and spirit, to the marrow of bones, and judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart (verse 12).

Be intentional about looking for specific passages in the Bible that reveal God's love for your life. Remember and keep His promises and notice how each one shows you Jesus. Ask Him to reveal His purpose to you and place your priorities in His powerful hands. Be creative, personalize these verses, and write them in your heart, so that this year is rooted and grounded in God's infallible truth.

Place this year in God's hands, make a commitment to keep His Word and put it into practice so that, even when difficult times come, you will be steadfast in His promises.

Suggested Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for being faithful in my past, for being with me in my present, and for your faithfulness in my future, you are always with me. Help me to be more aware of your presence in my life so that I can communicate with you more regularly this coming year. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, Amen.

1.    Hebrews 4:12-13 (NIV).

Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.