A Fresh Start

"Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, 

or with the breadth of his hand marked off 

the heavens?..." - Isaiah 40:12

**Photography by Melissa Talbot

On New Years eve, I had the opportunity to be part of a conversation around new years resolutions. I'm not one to make resolutions when a new year starts but introspective thoughts started to come.

When it was my turn, it became clear what should happen in the coming year. It's to be engaged. To be intentional about actions, words, and decisions.

Being intentional about reading more, both in the Bible and other genres of interest, in order to expand knowledge that will lend to better writing.

Intentional about being present, in the here and now, whether in nature alone or spending time in conversation with loved ones and friends. Being in each moment because that moment will never happen that way again. When it's gone, it's gone.

The intent to allow the fullness of life, and all that surrounds me, take hold and fill me to overflowing. No matter what that looks like. If it's moving through sorrow or experiencing joy, each situation has the potential to teach something that will bear fruit.

The intent to have no regrets about anything. Whether it's speaking from the heart, taking action to help someone or walking alongside a friend or foe who is hurting.

This new year is a fresh start. An extraordinary opportunity to do away with spiritual, physical, and mental compromise. To allow God to do all the refining and changes within that are of no benefit or outside of His will and best for me.

It is an unknown road entered with a complete awareness that struggle, sorrow, joy, and difficulty will happen. A journey that will bring lessons only learned if submission, obedience, and trust are included.

In light of all this, for me, it is a better road traveled with God than without. Even during the lonely times. Even during the can't-stop-crying, hard-to-breathe moments when the white knuckle grip is front and centre.

A better road traveled than not. A road I need to travel in light of the fear that exists deep down.

Encouragement for the week:

What does the new year look like to you? Is it a clean slate with an opportunity to do things differently and be kinder to yourself?

Is it a chance to be more intentional about your time and actions?

Whatever the new year holds and the hopes you have for it, protect that hope. It will mean the difference between being open to learning and growing or cratering from the lies believed in times of disappointment.

If you are a Christian reading this, it is my hope that you will be open to learning the lessons God has for you this year.

If you are not a Christian reading this, it is my hope that you will look for Jesus and find Him, stepping into the great hope He brings by knowing Him, making this year the best year ever.