We can all relate — As little children at Christmas time our thoughts would always be centered on ourselves: what would we get, how much would we get, would we get more than _______? As we got older, we would hear much talk about New Year’s resolutions, New Year’s goals to be set. As we became adults, no doubt we became the ones planning what and how much to give the young ones, as well as pondering and goals as each New Year rolled around.

Well, it’s here again – Happy New Year!!!

Self improvement is often a common resolution – lose weight, get fit, save money, eliminate debt, improve relationships, be happier, and so on – always primed with much hope, and often hype, but sometimes perhaps without vision of God’s plan or consideration of the wellbeing of others.

The truth is that the past year was a tough year for many, and next year may not be looking too good either for you or persons you know of. But what I do know for certain is that a life of considering others before yourself aligns one with the very heart of Jesus, changes our perspective and our hearts from the inside out, and in that moment, circumstances turn around. We may be moved to do practical things or to pray – and I think we can all agree that prayer changes things!

“So let us help carry each other’s burdens. In this way we will follow Christ’s teachings.” Galatians 6:2

“So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.”
2 Thessalonians 1:11 (NLT)

We can pray this as often as we like for ourselves, our family, our spouses, a friend in need, anyone. And give thanks to God continually for His faithfulness to hear us and honor His Word:

Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your faithfulness to hear us when we pray.
Please give ___________ the power and energy to accomplish the things You have called him to do.
Strengthen me to help him in any way that I can today.
Give me the boldness to ask two simple questions. “How can I pray for You?” and “Is there anything I can do to help you today?”
Show me how to prioritize what _________ may need me to do. Give me a servant’s heart and gracious spirit.
I thank You God for strengthening my marriage/relationship/friend/family/pastor today.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.