Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV)

“But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither – whatever they do prospers.”

As we begin a new year, it’s natural to start envisioning what the next 365 days will bring. For many, including myself, this time of year is exciting. Perhaps it’s because I am a creative person and enjoy setting goals for myself and visualizing them on a vision board. Or maybe it’s because the Lord prepares my heart during this time to make room for new things He has planned for me.

In the past, I’ve set new year’s goals based on my own desires and ambitions. But since giving my life to Christ, I’ve learned that no matter how many times I try to do things in my own strength and power, I will always come up short or burn out. That’s why I’ve found it important to ask God, “Lord, what do YOU want for my life this year?”, “Where are areas you want me to step into?” and “Where are areas you want me to back out of?”. By changing my heart posture from wanting things for myself to leaving my earthly desires behind and pursuing the plans and desires that the Lord calls over my life, I’ve found that my life is much more fulfilling.

Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps”. The Lord’s plans for our lives are good and holy (Jeremiah 29:11). Though they may not look like anything we would have ever expected, they are sweeter than anything we could have ever planned for ourselves. This year, my goal is to make room for Him and to surrender to His will for my life.

So, how do we determine what the Lord has planned for us this year? It’s simple, we just have to ask Him! Matthew 7:7-8 tells us that all we have to do is ask, seek and knock and the Lord will give us His desires. He is a God who keeps His promise and He will surely be there to lead and guide us along the way.

As Christians, we have an all-access pass to the Lord’s heavenly throne room. We can ask Him hard questions and He will answer. The answers may not come immediately, but it’s important to be patient and trust in the Lord’s timing. Through prayer and studying the Bible, the Lord may reveal specific areas or plans that He has for us. Additionally, seeking wise counsel from other believers and listening to the guidance of the Holy Spirit can also help us discern the Lord’s will for our lives. Remember, the Lord’s plans may not always align with our own desires and that’s okay. He has a higher purpose and plan for us, and as we trust and surrender to Him, He will lead us in the path of righteousness.