Expectations!

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:13-15 

Every year that passes by is different.  Last year was one of the most stressful for many.  For some, it has been a mixed bag.  For some, it has been a year of blessings and answers to prayers.  Every New Year has to be started with hope, faith, and positive expectations because we know Jesus is with us in every situation and has promised to go before us!  

The Bible says, " … without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6).  Our faith has a strong foundation because we know the kind of God we trust!  The Bible says in Ephesians 3:20, "Now unto Him, that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the Power that works in us ."   

The God we trust is able to do more than what we can ever ask or think!  What an amazing God we have!  This is the hope with which we should begin the New Year!    

Success depends on what our expectations are.   

Are you expecting blessings this New Year?  Have you set personal goals of sanctification?  What are your financial goals for this year?  The lame man in Acts 3 received much more than he expected!   He expected some charity but received healing in the Name of Jesus!  Expect to receive grace in the New Year.   The Lord says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."   His Grace is New every morning.   

Seek God and expect to be rewarded in the New Year, for God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him.  Remember God's promises to you in the years past and expect God to fulfill His promises, for He is a promise-keeping God.  With a grateful heart, take every supplication to the Lord and expect your prayers to be answered, for He is a prayer-answering God!  

The Lord has some expectations of us, too!   

The Lord expects us to spend time with Him and let His Word dwell in our hearts richly.  He expects us to obey His Word and always choose to walk in His ways.  He expects us to seek Him and bring honor to Him through our lives! 

My friend, let us wait on the Lord and renew our strength so that we can mount up like the Eagles, run, and not be weary in the New Year (Isaiah 40:31). 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, this New Year, our eyes are upon You alone.  Help me to live fulfilling Your purpose for my life.  Amen.