December 31: Taking an Honest Look at Your Life
Selected Bible Passage: Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) – “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Reflection:
Message:
As we approach the end of the year, this scripture invites us into a posture of self-reflection and openness to divine introspection. The psalmist’s prayer is one of vulnerability, asking God to reveal the innermost thoughts and actions that might detract from living a life pleasing to Him. It is a call to embrace spiritual honesty and embark on a journey of personal growth, guided by God’s everlasting wisdom.Key Points:
1. Divine Examination: Inviting God to search and know our hearts helps reveal underlying motives and anxieties.
2. Awareness of Sin: Recognizing and addressing any offensive ways ensures we are on the path of righteousness.
3. Alignment with God: The prayer emphasizes a desire for God to lead in the everlasting way, aligning our lives with His purposes.Personal Reflection Questions:
– What areas of my life am I hesitant to ask God to examine?
– How do I respond to the anxieties revealed in introspection?
– In what ways can I align more closely with God’s everlasting way?Prayer:
Guided Prayer:
Father God, I come before You with an open heart, eager to be purified and aligned with Your will. Please search my heart and reveal any hidden fears, anxious thoughts, or ways that separate me from You. Guide me toward Your path, where I can find peace and purpose in Your everlasting way. Amen.Personal Prayer Points:
– Ask for courage and openness to face personal weaknesses or failings.
– Pray for the strength to release anxieties and trust in God’s leading.
– Seek guidance in realigning life goals with God’s will.Action Steps:
Practical Application Tips:
– Reflection Journal: Dedicate time to journal your thoughts, fears, and areas you wish to improve upon with God’s guidance.
– Accountability Partner: Share your self-reflections with a trusted friend who can support and pray with you.
– Daily Affirmation: Recite Psalm 139:23-24 daily to cultivate a heart willing to undergo divine examination.Daily Challenges or Activities:
– Reflective Walk: Spend time in nature to reflect on the year’s journey and God’s presence within it.
– Vision Board: Create a vision board with goals for the new year that align with biblical principles and God’s everlasting way.
– Engage in Solitude: Find a quiet place to sit in silence, allowing God’s presence to gently bring peace and insight to the forefront of your mind.Allow your soul to be searched by God, and let His examination bring freedom and clarity as you prepare for the new year. Invite divine wisdom into your process of personal growth and find peace in His everlasting way.
- 1 Reply
Amen 🙏🏿
What a year it has been to witness the goodness and faithfulness of the Lord. Lord thank you for being there for me through it all. Indeed I have tasted and have seen the Lord’s goodness.
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