For many years, I went down the path of setting worldly goals and making New Year's resolutions, some of which were short-lived and left me feeling defeated when I inevitably failed. There were goals that I reached, but these achievements didn't result in any meaningful fruit and were empty in hindsight.

As I turned to God's Word, the Christ story, His love letter to me, I learned to lean in a more meaningful direction.

Matthew 6:33 – But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. (ESV)

Realizing and re-realizing every day that the love of God is unconditional, I learned to surrender my plans and seek His — to inquire.

Psalm 27:4 – One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple. (ESV)

As I continue to grow in Christ and seek Him, I find myself celebrating both His love and His loving correction in my life. When I am in step with God, I am fulfilled. When I fall short and feel His loving re-direction, I am still fulfilled because He is walking with me, gently squeezing my hand and leading me forward in love.

Psalm 32:8 – The Lord says, "I will teach you and guide you in the way you should live. I will watch over you and be your guide. (ERV)

When I decided to trust the Lord, I had to make the personal choice that each of us is called to make: Will I follow the world or follow Christ?

Looking back and taking stock, it is clear to me. The world promises the world: everything that exists outside of our self. How sad and empty to have everything outside of our self, but never to know or to have a true sense of who we are. In my experience, the Lord reveals our true selves to us, our unique purpose and plan as children of Christ, as we walk alongside Him. In my experience, it is fulfilling and meaningful.

What is your experience? Is it outside of you or within you?

Ephesians 3:20-21 – Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace, compassion and forgiveness. Help us to turn our hearts and minds to You and Your divine plan for each of us in Christ. Take our hands, Lord, and lead us forward in a fulfilling and godly direction. In Jesus' powerful name, we give thanks and pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Lisa McLaughlin-Kent <gotzboyz@rogers.com>
Scotland, Ontario, Canada
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