Creator, Father, King #365

He causes us to remember his wonderful works. How gracious and merciful is our Lord!

YOU MADE IT!

Another year is in the books. Most likely, it had plenty of highs and lows. That’s the way life goes. But now, the year is over, and a new one is about to begin. You’ve also made it to the end of this devotional. Congratulations—and Happy New Year’s Eve!

Since ancient times, humans have celebrated the turning of the annual calendar. In America, we fill New Year’s Eve with college football games, parties, the famous ball drop in New York City, and many other festivities. No matter what kind of celebrations you have planned for today, New Year’s Eve is a perfect time for reflection. And what better to reflect on and celebrate than God’s blessings to you over the last twelve months?

What’s It Mean?

Whether you’ve had a great year or a tough one, there is so much to be thankful for. God’s goodness is always abundant. Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (ESV). And psalms such as Psalm 30:4 are continually exhorting us to “Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones! Praise his holy name” for all his mercy and grace toward us.

In the Old Testament, God’s people frequently set up memorial stones and other markers to commemorate God’s mighty deeds. Today, we don’t need to erect altars or earthen pillars, but we should set aside time to reflect on God’s “wonderful works” (today’s verse). People who drift from the Lord are those whose hearts grow cold and thankless toward him. But those whose faith is vibrant have a joyful, grateful spirit.

New Year’s is also a traditional time for resolutions. How do you want to grow spiritually this year? Spending more time in prayer? Growing in your knowledge of God’s Word? Maturing in a particular fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)? Finding a way to serve others inside or outside the church? Whatever it is, commit it to prayer and do it out of a worshipful heart toward your Creator.

As this year—and this book—draws to a close, the hope is that you’ve received even a small glimpse of God’s holiness, his indescribable majesty, and his overwhelming love for you through his Son, Jesus Christ.

May this new year be your best one yet for God’s glory as you remember his goodness toward you!

Now What?

Start a journal of God’s “wonderful works” so that you can gratefully reflect on them a year from now!

Did You Know?

NYC’s Times Square ball made its inaugural drop in 1907.