Too many of us claim to have faith, but, no works to show for it. It’s time to put our faith to work. When we exercise our faith our works are revealed. Thus, faith and works go hand in hand. Scripture reminds us, that, a man is justified by works and not by faith only.

God knows what is best for us and many times he has to bring us under subjection, he has to chastise us. “Now, no chastening seems to be joyful at present, but painful, nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Do not despise the chastening of the Lord, not be discouraged by it.”

Scripture reminds us, that, he who doubts will not receive any blessings from the Lord. Will you continue to block your blessings by doubting God? James 1:6 reminds us, “But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not doubt, do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind.”

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. All who are willing, come to the Father!

The New Year is beginning and my pledge to God renewed. I will not forget His promise, nor doubt His every move. Lord, I will carry you in my heart and make your will my way. I will go wherever you lead me and never will I stray. For with You is life eternal and joy unspeakable, and I will begin and end each day, totally devoted to You. Amen!

My brothers and sisters in Christ, we cannot do the same things the same way and expect to get different results. Therefore, we must be the change we want to see. Ask God for the guidance and the help you will need to see you through. There is nothing that we could do in our own strength, but we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. So, try your best, do your best.

Lord, we complain that we do not have enough, but help us to be mindful of the parable of the little boy with the five loaves and two fish, and how you blessed it and it multiplied to feed thousands. So too, if we ask your blessings on the little that we have, you will increase it to supply the needs of those around us. Your plate may be full to overflowing this morning, and it may not be what you wanted but be thankful, because someone else is waking up to an empty plate. Lord, give us grateful thankful hearts, and the mind to share with the less fortunate.

Too many of us want change, but refuse to do things differently. My brothers and sisters in Christ, if we do not change we cannot grow. God from time to time has delivered us from storms that should have destroyed us, yet, we run back to the same storms. It’s time to break free, it’s time for a new start, and God is able to help you. Trust, believe, and receive.

Walking with God has benefits. For those who have been walking with God for a while could attest to his goodness. You will face trial and tribulations, but, God will hold your hand through it all. Learn to trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge him; for God’s way is perfect, the way of the Lord is proven, he is a shield to all who trust him. Will you follow God’s way for 2018?

Our God has promised us rain in due season, he has promised us provision from his storehouse. But, it is our lack of faith that prevents us from accessing the goodness of the Lord. Let us pledge this year to continually trust God and patiently wait for his blessings, because our God keeps his promises. No matter what you and I may face this year, let us trust God for favorable outcomes, let us trust in his abilities, and walk with him every step of the way.