Everyone has had their life disrupted in one way or another. While disruptions make life more challenging, tiring, and downright hard, as you walk into 2022 remember that God is with you, and He is in control of every disruption and challenge you face.
As you ring in the new year, study some encouraging words from the prophet Isaiah in why Jesus is worth your time. He will be found faithful by you when you choose to believe and follow Him. By listening to the Holy Spirit’s voice, He will keep you in step with your Lord, alive to His instructions (aka His Word), and near to His presence.
Isaiah 42:1-4 says, “Look at my servant, whom I strengthen.” If Jesus serves God, what needs to change in your life? God will equip you to fulfill your calling. “He is my chosen one, who pleases me.” Who or what are you living for? What needs to change so your focus is upon Christ only? Christ lived for an audience of one, His Father. “I have put my spirit upon Him.” Every believer who receives Jesus into his heart has the Holy Spirit within him. Do not squander His voice. He will keep you on the eternal path.
“He will bring justice to the nations.” The world is waiting for this to happen. Jesus is returning to judge the world for its sins. While you and I wait, what is God asking of you (and I) to help promote Kingdom living in the dark? You (and I) are called to shine His light. How can you shine His light brighter? Be willing to remove any obstacles that you let stand in God’s way.
“He will not shout or raise His voice in public.” Read Matthew 11:28-30 to learn more about the nature of Christ. You must turn your ear to hear His voice. The world will yell, God will not. The world will promote itself like a parade, God will not.
“He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle.” This is comforting, isn’t it? It is easy to feel like the weakest link or a small flicker of light that can’t be used. Lift up praises to your King for He lavishes on those who feel puny, small, and unusable. Worthlessness is not in God’s vocabulary.
“He will bring justice to all who have been wronged. He will not falter or lose heart until justice prevails throughout the earth.” Hallelujah! God will make what is wrong in this world right once again. What was once perfect in the Garden will be restored again. God promises this truth. This means you can walk in faith in these dark days for God is with you lighting the way before you.
Finally, “even distant lands beyond the sea will wait for His instruction.” Every person around the world has truth embedded within their hearts. You and I were made to follow Christ. We are called to wait upon the Lord for what He wants to tell us. And in the waiting, know without a shadow of the doubt that “His name will be the hope of the world.” (Matthew 12:21)
As you go into 2022, be hopeful in your Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. Happy New Year.
Carol J German 