Hello, 2023! - Before I agree, can I read the fine print? (haha)

Do you wish your tomorrow to be different from your today?

With the past few years of covid, flu, rising gas and groceries prices, unrest, etc., I wonder what 2023 will bring. Will next year be any different than last?

No one knows what the future holds. However, this is what I do know! With the turning of each new day, you and I have new mercies and possibilities. God tells us his mercy is new every morning, which is valid for 2023 as well. Lamentations 3:22-23 reads, "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23. (ESV)

I also know I can trust Him. The truth is there are plenty of things out of my control, but there are also many things in my control. These alone are enough to keep me busy if I am to do them well. Proverbs 3:5-6 reads, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

I seriously want to rise to the occasion of living in 2023 with fresh blessings and change by doing what I can to make 2023 the best year yet.

Here are a few statements I want to remember as I enter 2023. Some have guided me through the years, and some are new. Maybe, they will help you as well.

1. I will change my tomorrow by living well today.

2. I will learn from the past but lean into the future.

3. If I desire peace, I must be a peacemaker.

4. My people will always matter more than my projects.

5. My gratitude will change my attitude.

6. I will laugh loudly and praise profoundly.

7. I will embrace more of what my husband wants to do. (A little scary, but I am choosing and committed) HAHA! You can commit this to your someone special, but not mine!

8. I will enjoy what I do or change what I do.

9. I will forgive even if I can't forget.

10. I will (try my best) to love the Lord with all my heart, love others well with my words, and love even more through my actions.

What about you? I hope you will create your statements or borrow mine for a better future. I see great things ahead! Trust God's mercy and embrace what you can change - And let's move into 2023 expecting a great year.

From my heart to yours, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Happy New Year!