Overcoming Challenges

As we move toward 2022, the candles illuminate the paths we navigated during 2020 and 2021.

We faced pandemic shutdowns, vaccines, boosters, and discussions about the pros and cons of vaccination that we never expected to confront. Businesses, schools, government, and churches opened and closed in response to situational needs. These activities show our resilience. We might not refer to it as resilience, yet it reflects our determination to continue moving forward and to gain a better understanding of the contemporary issues in our world.

May we obtain comfort and peace in this verse: So, do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous, right hand, Isaiah 41:10.

We do not have to fear. Why? Fear has torment. Perfect love casts out fear, I John 4:18.

Can the news we hear be fearful? Yes. This is why it is important to do our due diligence

with matters of health and wellness. We can check on others and allow them to address their concerns.

We may not have the answers that they seek, but a listening ear and a helping hand are worth a million dollars!

Know that God is with us. He guides us when we ask Him and leads us as we navigate unknown

environments. It reminds me of times when it stormed when my children were young. They ran into

our room to announce that a thunderstorm was underway. Of course, we already knew it. They were

reminding us to note their feelings.

That is how it is today. God knows what is happening in the world. He invites us to cast every care and anxiety on Him, because He cares for us, 1 Peter 5:7. I picture us throwing sickness, lost jobs, low pay, vaccines, virus testing, infectivity rates, and a myriad of other concerns to Him. Strength comes when we release our thoughts and prayers to Him.

Mother Teresa advised that "in this life, we cannot do great things. We can do small things with great love." We can contribute to making the world better in 2022 by doing small things with great love!

Share your kindness in 2022; light your surroundings with love. This is the example that we have from God. He sent His Son into the world to heal and connect with the sick, lame, blind, and brokenhearted, to show that there is a path toward a better future, if we believe and declare it.

We are upheld by His righteous, right hand. I am so grateful that we can be buoyant and not easily depressed. Focusing on the future with His hand supporting us, dismantles melancholy.

May hope remain in our hearts and minds as we change years. Hope means that we encourage each other. Hope drives us to higher planes. Hope provides avenues for completion. Hope holds candles, flashlights, and lamps that we need to go on.

May 2022 be the year of revitalized hope for you and your family!

Calls to Action:

1. Share your kindness in 2022. Do small things with great love."

2. Focus on the future. When we release the past, doorways open.

3. Purchase "Fully Persuaded Faith", https://www.marilynnjames.com/.