A New Resolution
Jennifer L. Luckett (Texas, USA)


TODAY'S READING
2 Corinthians 5:16-21


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God calls me to love and accept myself and others.


PRAYER FOCUS
To notice God’s blessings

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Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. - 1 Peter 5:6-7 (KJV)

One January, instead of my usual resolutions about making more money or losing weight, I decided to try something new. I read a book on gratitude, and I began a daily routine of creating a five-item list of people, events, and things for which I was grateful. Over time, my gratitude lists grew to include more blessings — large and small.

I remain a work in progress, struggling with self-doubt and anxiety about my future. But I have become less self-conscious and have opened myself to others, offering a listening ear or a kind word. My outlook has brightened, and my faith in God has been renewed.

Through prayer and Bible study, I am learning to abandon my worries about having enough money or losing weight. I now entrust God with all my concerns. God wants our fears to diminish and our hearts to grow, increasing our capacity to love ourselves and our neighbors. As I accept the inherent value that I possess and use my gifts for God’s purpose, I am renewed daily. Each moment I am granted by my Creator is a blessing to cherish and celebrate.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for all that we have and all that we are. Guide us to love others and ourselves as you do. Amen.