A new year has begun, and with it dawns hope – hope of better circumstances, better attitudes, better relationships.

During this time, some people make a resolution, something they want to do better in the coming year. Others prayerfully pick a word around which to center their decisions. Still others choose a Bible verse, training themselves to focus upon Scripture. Lists of books we want to read in the coming year; long agendas of tasks we want to accomplish; ten-year plans, five-year plans, one-year plans, six-month plans – all of these we make with hopeful expectation that we will be able to make the necessary changes, that ours is the will which spurs on reform.

The book of Proverbs gives us many reminders about who is ultimately in control, who we can ultimately rely upon. I’ve made resolutions, picked words, chosen Bible verses, and fashioned expectant lists. Yet, I’ve found that the more I focus on me, on what I want done, what I want to change, the less my focus is on the Lord.

Will I continue this year to go through the motions of preparing for a hopeful new year? Of course! However, I must also understand that, although I have made plans, although I have made lists, it is essential to remain open to what God wants to show me, teach me, have me do. He has seen fit to allow another year to happen – how can I honour Him in it?