Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Psalms 42:11 NIV

During the holidays, many of us feel lost, lonely, and sad. Personally, I have always tried to hide my feelings and emotions because I don’t want to be a stumbling block to others. I know, however, as one gets older, it is more difficult to hide or disguise one’s feelings. God has reminded me often that HE IS always with me. My resolution for the New Year is to focus on HOPE in Our Heavenly Father! With HIM, I can be confident I can conquer all my fears and problems.

Even some of our Biblical heroes suffered from a loss of hope. At some point, we all have experienced hopelessness. We have to immerse ourselves in God’s Word and claim HIS Promises. God never lies or breaks a promise. HE IS Our Heavenly Father and loves us more than we could ever possibly imagine! Our purpose is in HIS Hands, and HE will never let us down.

Sometimes we are troubled by the thoughts in our head, and we struggle with negativity and worry. We allow toxic thoughts to enter our minds. I have found that the solution is to get into God’s Word. The more I read, study, and learn from His Word, the less my mind is occupied with fear and anxiety. By focusing on others and getting involved with others, I am able to experience joy, peace, and happiness. I don’t believe Our Heavenly Father wants us to be bogged down in fear and anxiety. I truly believe He wants us to believe in Him and have no doubts. When we allow Him to have control, we are the ones who benefit! God is the Author and Architect of Hope! HE IS our I AM!

As this New Year begins, my prayer is each of you will be filled with HOPE! Please pray for me and for others, as I am praying for each of you.