“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me.” Jesus (John 15:5)

Every year of life brings blessings and burdens, joys and sorrows. We can learn from all of these as God shapes and sustains us. Time is a gift and not a guarantee.

LOOK back on the year that has passed with gratitude to God. How did God sustain you? What did God teach you? How did God change you?

REST in the moment at hand, and learn to abide in God. Make a commitment to be in each moment of life. Not weighed down by the past, or by worries of what lies ahead.

HOPE for the days ahead. Nothing is uncertain to or surprising to God. He will lead you toward new steps of faith, and new levels of dependence on Him. Whatever comes your way, God will be enough for you.

Father God, I look back with gratitude, thankful for your mercies that carried me through and your grace that upholds me. There were experiences that broke me, and experiences that built me, and for all of them I am thankful. In this moment, I rest in you. Teach me not to trust in myself but to grow in my faith in you. As I look to the future, I lift my eyes in hope because you are with me!