Three Encouraging Words For Anyone Who Has Had a Tough Year
As happy as I am about the year coming to an end, stepping into the next year gives me anxiety. Because 2023 was not so great and I am a bit anxious about what 2024 holds.
I think it is only normal to feel that way. I mean, I entered the year with so much hope and faith and it turns out that the year had its own plans.
And if you have ever had a tough or challenging year, you will agree with me that it is not the best season of your life. I mean, we all encounter years that test our strength and resilience. And when this trying period comes, it is our faith and trust in God that will pull us out. But on the flip side, stepping out in faith and trusting for better things will not come easy to you again.
Hence, it is only normal for me to feel frustrated about how the year panned out and project my frustration onto the next year by feeling anxious.
However, from God’s word, I understand that everything that happens to us, good or bad, is divinely orchestrated by God to give us a glorious end. Therefore, that 2023 was not what I expected does not stop me from making great plans for the next year or trusting God and His unfailing word for good. Rather than feeling sorry about what was and was not, my best course of action is to lean on God and anchor my faith on His Word. Thus, encouraging myself from His word and trusting that He has my best interest at heart.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV
So, if this year was tough or was not so great for you and you are a bit skeptical about how 2024 will be, here are three encouraging words to remind you that all is not lost and you should trust that the new year will be better:
- Things are going to get better: A cliche but the truth! Things will definitely get better. Regardless of how the year has been, as far as you hold unto God and do your own part as a human, know that things will definitely get better. Notice that God does not go back on His Word. If in Jeremiah 29:11, He says that His ultimate plan is to give us a happy ending, He will surely make it happen.
- You made it through all of it: Most times, people tend to undermine their resilience or tenacity in the face of difficult situations. You made it out of a tough year? It is inspiring and worth celebrating. Not everyone has that kind courage and determination. Additionally, your ability to persevere shows that God has equipped you with the capacity to respond to challenges with strength and determination. What a beautiful gift to have in this pressing time!
- God loves you: Today, leave here with this at least – God loves you. And trust me, His love is the greatest thing that can happen to anybody. So, even if the year was not great or you did not get what you wanted, be grateful for His love and rest in it. And in time, you will realize that you already have what you need for the next year – His love and support.
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