This past year, with my hubby Jim, I’ve been reading through the Bible. We read some from the Old Testament, some from the New Testament, the Psalms and the Proverbs. I am amazed how the passages in the Old and the New dovetail together.

As I approach a new year very soon, I am thinking about what’s next. What should I invest my time in? What would God have me do? I also look back. Where do I need to make a correction in what I am involved in?

The prophet of old, Haggai, reminded the Jews who were returning from exile in Babylon to “consider their ways.”

In the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, I plan to take the time and think about what the prophet advised the Jews upon their return from exile and apply to myself:

This is what the Lord All-Powerful says: Think about what you have done (Haggai 1:5 NCV).

Last night, I had one of my sometimes-sleepless-nights. To help me drop off to sleep, I say verses in my head I’ve memorized. This one kept rippling through my mind: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding…”and finishes with the promise, “He will direct your paths.”

I’m praying that’s what God will do for me. I like what the Message says:

Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he’s the one who will keep you on track. (Proverbs 3:6 MSG).

So as you make lists about who to give presents to, what special concoctions in the kitchen you might make, who you need to visit, send a card, or phone–with me–ask God to remind us to “consider my ways.” Then He–God–will direct our paths.

Can’t ask for anything more, can we?

 

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