Meditations for a New YearSample

Day 7 - First Steps

Is there a wonderful "How to have a great year?" Not exactly. There will be no formula. No equation. No step-by-step instructions. But there is a truth - one powerful truth - that can help you make the most of the year ahead.

We measure our lives in years. God measures them in days. Read Psalm 90 and notice the Lord's emphasis on "the days of our years."

The way to make the most of the year is to make the most of the days—one day at a time. We move from one step to the next. In fact, very ordinary days can turn into a very extraordinary year.

When the journal of the famed explorer Christopher Columbus was discovered, one entry seemed to fill most days. It was only three words. There was little adventure or exhilaration in it. The simple entry: "We sailed on."

Many days that is all we are supposed to do! Sail on. Columbus is remembered for his discoveries, but his persistence made them possible. At this time of year, there is much thought about what lies behind and much talk about what lies before. That is all fine. But remember that life is not lived in the past or the future. It is lived in the present. It is lived today. It is lived one day at a time. The watchword of the year is: Sail on!

However, this is not to be confused with waiting in the port of comfort and comfort. We do not need to drop anchor or stay in the port! This is a time to renew our walk with the Lord for the new year. Every move forward begins with one step. Listen to these four simple suggestions for your devotional life and determine to take the first steps today! Whatever happens in the coming year, keep moving toward the Lord Jesus. Hold fast to the Word of God!