As we enter the last few hours of 2023, I’m sure many us will start to not only look forward to 2024 with hope for a brighter, more peaceful year, but we’ll also find ourselves reflecting on all that has happened I the world in this last year, and also what the year has thrown our way personally.
I have no idea how you feel about 2023, but I’d like to help you reflect on your relationship with God in this last year, by asking you a few questions to help you in your reflection…but they will only be helpful to you if you answer the questions honestly!
Here’s my questions, in no particular order – Remember to answer them honestly:
- The COVID pandemic may officially be over, but COVID is very much still around, with many still getting COVID, and many still suffering the longer term side-affects of having had COVID. Have you continued to ask God to help and protect us through these post-pandemic COVID times, or have you just accepted COVID as part of our daily lives?
- With some many conflicts/war around the world at this time, have you prayed for understanding between all those at war, and for a peaceful resolution to all conflict?
- Have you prayed regularly each day this year?
- Have you read your bible daily, and turned to it for words of wisdom and guidance?
- Have you listened to God when he has been trying to speak to you this year?
- Have you said ‘yes’ to all God has asked you to do, without any conditions, and without hesitation?
- Have you shared God’s message of love and forgiveness with others this year?
- Have you recognised your failures and shortcomings this year, and asked God to forgive you and help you become a better Christian?
- And finally has God been at the centre of all you’ve done in 2023?
Did you struggle to answer those questions honestly, or did any of your answers surprise you?
For each of us I’m sure we wish we could honestly answer ‘yes’ to each of these questions. Even if we didn’t answer ‘yes’ to each question, the important thing is that we recognise that we are not perfect, and that by seeking God’s guidance each day of our lives, He can help us to become more like Christ.
Thankfully, regardless of our answers to these questions, we can continue to ask God to help us become a better version of us, so that this time next year, we can say ‘yes’ to more of the above questions. So as 2023 draws to a close, I pray that we may each ask God to draw closer to us in the come year, acknowledge that He is all we need.
You're all I want You're all I've ever needed You're all I want Help me know you are near
The Distinct Dot 