Happy New Year, Everyone!

As we head into 2023, I wonder, how much time do we spend contemplating the past year?

Looking Back to 2022

In Billy Graham’s Hope for Each Day devotional book, his December 31 entry talks about looking back to the previous year.

He asks several preliminary questions, then says regardless of our answers, he suggests we pause and prayerfully ask our self the following additional questions.

Questions to Ponder in the New Year

First, how do we think God looks on this past year in our life? Did it bring us any closer to Him? Did it expose any weaknesses or find us wandering from His way? Was He disappointed in our responses to its challenges?

Second, what lessons will we take from the past year into the next? What did God teach us? What did He try to teach us? What needs to change–and how will it happen?

Dr. Graham concluded his devotion by saying we should not be bound by the past and its failures, but we also should not forget its lessons.

Like Paul, we need to forget the past and press on in obedience to Christ. Amen?

If you are like me, these are not easy questions with simple answers. These are questions that require thought and honest reflection. Will you join me in taking the time to consider how these questions relate to our life?

Your Turn

Do you find any of Dr. Graham’s questions easier to answer than others? If so, which ones?

Leave a comment below to share your thoughts on the subject. If you think others would appreciate reading this, please share it through the social media buttons.

Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God’s call through Christ Jesus to the life above. Philippians 3:13-14 (GNT)

I wish you well.

Sandy

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