As promised, I will attempt, with the help of others, to include a Pondering daily devotional this year. I hope that this might be found useful to all who read it. -Blessings!
Reading #1
“Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…” -Romans 12:2
What will this year have in store for us?
Will it be an epic year, or will it be a difficult year?
What challenges will I face?
As we look into this new year of 2017, we cannot but help to wonder what might happen, both the good and the not so good. Despite the fact that we do not know what the future holds for us, we do know who holds that future! Our faith must not be so shallow as to worry about what could happen, or what might take place…these things are beyond our reach, and as Matthew 6:25-34 describes – what good is worrying?…”Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear...” The only thing that worry is good for is wasting our time and efforts. Let go of what could be, or what might happen…these worries distort and consume us if we allow them access to our innermost thoughts.
Instead, let our focus verse become just that today – Your focus.
Do not allow the elements and issues of the world around you to decide how you will live or interact with others. These concerns of the world will always be there, but at the end of the day can we really control it all? – NO!
Do you want a transformation that lasts much longer than any new year’s resolution? Then look no further than God’s Holy Presence to begin that new and good work within you! It won’t be easy. There will be setbacks along the way, but with His power and strength, all things are possible! But I must warn you – this path takes discipline and diligence to see a marked improvement of the soul.
Take time today read this focus verse…read it more than once.
Perhaps say the words out loud…even take it step further and write these words in your own handwriting somewhere, perhaps in a journal or a piece of paper you can post on your refrigerator or some place prominent. Pray for God’s transforming power to begin this good work within you anew.
Homework: (Don’t be afraid, there won’t be a test)
* Read the words out loud
* Write them down
* Pray about your concerns and worries – begin to lay them one by one at God’s feet.
* Invite God into every aspect of your day – from beginning to end.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I have these worries in my life.
Fears about tomorrow.
Stresses at work and sometimes with my family and friends.
Intercede in my life today!
Remind me of your transforming power that will guide and provide me peace in the midst of my storms. Help me this year Lord to trust you more, to worry less about the world around me that often consumes my thoughts and leaves me drained and empty. Give me a passion for others that reflects Yours. Change this heart of mine, transform my thoughts, ambitions, desires and efforts into an outpouring of love for You. Thank you for Your presence with me, now walk be side me into this new year. In Jesus name I pray these things. -Amen.
Pastor's Ponderings 
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