02
Jan
Happy 2020! Another New Year (and decade) arrives with new possibilities for a new perspective.
And so, the adventure begins.
From perfect vision to vision impairment, “2020” is an obvious tool to craft statements about our spiritual eyesight.
But there’s another statement grabbing my attention.
For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT)
Whether I’m facing unmet goals from previous years or setting new goals for my current calendar, it helps to begin with the end in mind.
That’s what God did.
Before Adam and Eve flourished then fell, He planned to show us His grace through Christ. My plans may fluctuate with my emotions, but His Plan A never needs a Plan B. I’ve learned no matter how high we aim or how far we’ve fallen, it’s how deeply we experience God’s will for our lives that matters.
What do you have in mind for this year? God wants to show us His grace every day.
It comes with a hope dependent on His promises. It takes my plan and shapes it into His purpose. Even as I consider a situation’s facts, I’ll see much more with eyes of faith.
From January to December, we may have amazingly good days or unbelievably tough days. However, God’s grace is up to the task either way.
It shows up through the wonder of an unexpected kindness, an unearned opportunity or a much needed miracle. But perhaps grace is best seen when we’re the most fragile or if the future looks bleak.
20/20 vision is seeing my life through Christ’s victory.
Through His death for my sins, I see I’m loved, forgiven and free. (Romans 3:24)
Through the power of His resurrection, I see I can rise from life’s difficulties because His power lives in me. (Ephesians 1:18-20)
Any moment, any soul can find a new start in His grace. He’s both the Beginning and the End.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” (Revelation 22:13 NLT)
staceypardoe
What an inspirational post for the start of the year! I love the idea of beginning with the end in mind!
Joy
Thanks Stacey! Many blessings to you in 2020 and beyond!
Cindy
Hi Joy! There is a power in your words that does bring hope. I wanted to underline or highlight a number of statements that were extremely powerful and poignant! I love this! Blessings dear woman of God!
Joy
Hi Cindy! Praise God for the way He encourages our hearts. I’m glad this post spoke to yours! Blessings to you too!
Nicole
Yes, I agree, we should be purposeful, and have a goal, a finish-line in sight for our year, so that we don’t meander through it aimlessly! This also means submitting to His will, and allowing him to direct our plans. Love this!
Joy
Hi Nicole! I agree with you on keeping the finish line in sight. Thankfully, with Christ as the Author and Finisher of our faith, we’re in good Hands!
Lucille
Physically, I use to have 20/39 in one eye and 20/200 in the other eye but that makes me who God created me to be. To see near and far at the same time is his created handiwork. And it allows me to see the present and the future. This year I hope to be able to reveal all that He has shown.
“… And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Joy
I love this! What a beautiful testimony and perspective on your uniqueness Lucille. Thanks for sharing!
Annalisa Zimmerman
I found your blog through “Beloved Women,” and so glad I did! Enjoyed the post, and needed a reminder to “begin with the end in mind” knowing He can take my Life plan and turn it into His purposes! Thank you for that!
Joy
Hi Annalisa, welcome to my blog! I’m glad you enjoyed this post. May you continue to experience God’s leading in your plans and His peace in the process. Blessings to you!