I began this “New” Year with an “old” habit.  I take some time at the beginning of a new year to thank God for what He’s done for me.  I continue to update an ongoing list of His blessings, adding to it not only things that happen during the current year, but other blessings I remember from the past that were not on this list. 

The result? Great gratitude to God for His love, grace, and kindness.

When a difficult and challenging year ends, it is all too easy to reflect back on what one has endured.  It’s common to hear phrases like, “I’m glad this year is over,” along with, “I hope this New Year will be a lot better.” 

In everyone’s life there are challenges.  Some years we face more than other years.  But has there ever been a year with no challenges, no setbacks, or no difficulties?  Of course not. It’s just part of life.

But regardless of any and all challenges, taking a little time to write down some of the blessings from God during the year is not only very encouraging, but very helpful in the New Year ahead. Here’s why.

Remind Yourself

The more you remind yourself of His gracious blessings in your life, reminding yourself of His His help and His goodness toward you, it builds confidence and trust in Him.

Remembering those blessings allows you to go to God with your requests and petitions with greater expectations because you remember what He has already done for you.  If He blessed you then, He can certainly bless you now.   

And, even more importantly, God gets the gratitude and recognition He so deserves. We thank Him, remembering what He did for us, giving Him the credit for the blessings in our lives.  And, again, as we do this, our confidence in His help in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead continues to grow.

Psalm 69:30
I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.  

When we thank God, we magnify Him, we recognize His greatness; we give Him the thanks and appreciation He deserves. We remind ourselves of His care, His grace and His help. 

What You Think

If all we ever think and talk about are our troubles, our mind stays fixed on the sad parts of life.  The Bible says,  “As a man thinks in his heart so is he;” and, “Guard your heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life.”  Staying focused on the problems and challenges hinders our expectations of God’s help. 

On the other hand, when our minds stay fixed on His blessings, His goodness, and His help and care, we lay our petitions before Him, looking for and expecting His blessings.  The more we think that way, the more we are reminded of His goodness. 

God does not bring us troubles and tragedies.  God, because of His love, His grace, and His mercy, brings us deliverance. 

Colossians 3:15
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

God wants us to let His peace rule in our hearts – He says, “Be thankful.”  Reminding yourself of His blessings brings peace to your heart.

Pray With Confidence

Philippians 4:6 & 7
Be careful [anxious] for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

God does not want us to be anxious or stressed. So we go to Him with our requests, with thanksgiving – remembering what He has already done for us.  And as a result, God’s peace will guard our hearts.

Starting a New Year with anticipation for a better year is a good idea.  Writing down goals or resolutions along with an action plan for the coming New Year is a good, positive strategy for the days ahead. Reviewing them throughout the year keeps one focused and on track, especially if the past year was challenging or difficult.

But take some time as this New Year begins to thank God for His blessings on your life.  As this new year unfolds, write down His blessings and answers to your prayers.  Let them be a reminder to you that God is still on the throne.

God is still able to do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think. He is still able to make all grace abound toward you, that you always have all sufficiency in all things.  

Have a Happy and Blessed New Year!

Psalm 103:2
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.