In all honesty, when I reflect on the last twelve months, it’s been really difficult. I walked through a season of hardships, disappointments and the injustice that sometimes comes with life.
The Lord has been so kind to supply all my needs through His Word. I’ve clung to a couple specific verses that I pray will carry me through 2021 and the rest of my years with a gentle and quiet spirit.
Romans 15:13 tells me that my joy and peace come from the God of hope IN believing. It does not come from any other earthly comfort, human apology or changes in my circumstances.
Even if my circumstances never change, He is always good and my heart can rest knowing that my joy and piece abounds in believing in the God of hope and not in anything else.
Exodus 14:14 tells us as we suffer the hardships of this life to be still. The Lord will fight for you! The Lord will bring vengeance, not you. The Lord is the one who will change hearts, not you. The Lord will protect you, not the words of defense you can utter. The Lord will hide you in the shadow of His wing, no earthly comfort can do that. The Lord will heal your heart, not any earthly restoration. The Lord will bring you deep joy, not any circumstance.
Lamentations 3:17-24 tells us that regardless of our (temporary) circumstances, the truths of the Gospel are unchanging. No matter what 2021 looks like or feels like, the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end and His faithfulness is very great. He is our portion. We must look to him (in all circumstances) and hope in Him (Lamentations 3:17-24).
This year allow your heart to know true peace and joy by being still, being silent and letting the God of hope fight for you.