Happy New Year

It's at this time of year that many people think about the months that have passed and look towards the coming year.

I'm not really one for making resolutions. I find they only make me feel guilty when I inevitably fall short of my ideals. But I do like to take a few moments to thank God for all that has happened in the last year, and look forward to those things that I'm hopeful for this year.

Aside the obvious excitement of our new addition (who is currently doing a jig against my stomach!) who will hopefully be arriving sometime in April, there are many things in my head and on my heart for this year. But I am also mindful that I take the time to lift up all these things to God and surrender myself and my plans to His ways and His plans for me.

I pray for clarity. That I may clearly see that path He has laid out before me. That I do not get caught up in the footsteps of others or try to walk in their paths. But that I embrace more of who I am in God and His purposes for me.

I pray that I remember to take time to rest and be still with God. To get to know Him better and to understand His heart. To take the time to talk to Him about all my hopes and fears. And to take the time to listen to Him and be open to His guiding and His direction.

I pray that I will learn even more how to praise Him when the path ahead is clear...and when it isn't

And I pray that I will recognise His promptings and see the opportunities He gives to me.

I pray that I will be thankful for all that I have and that I would recognise the buds of new life that are all around me.

Most of all I pray that I will wait patiently but not passively. That I will actively and expectantly pursue the purposes of God for me. That I will be ready and available. That I will be prepared, determined and focussed so that I may be used when the time is right. That I will continue to learn and grow. That God will help me to remove the thorns and hardness in me and replace them with His grace and love.

I pray that I will seek out God and be steadfast in my faith so that I may bring His love and hope to those around me.

I'm excited for all that 2010 has in store!

Happy New Year!