”17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
Colossians 3:17
At last, the year is finally over.
2023 has been quite the challenging year, and I will be the first one to give praise to God for the new year, for new opportunities, new relationships, new hope.
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, our hearts are filled with anticipation and expectation. We enter 2024 with hope, a powerful force that can shape our journey and illuminate our path. Today, let us turn our hearts and minds to the wisdom found in Colossians 3:17, seeking insights that will anchor us in hope throughout the coming year.
These words from the Apostle Paul to the Colossians provide a profound foundation for our reflections on hope in the new year. Let’s explore the transformative power of hope as we navigate the unknown, relying on God’s guidance and grace.
**1. Hope in Purposeful Action:
Colossians 3:17 reminds us that whatever we do—our words, our deeds—should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus. This is the essence of purposeful action. As we step into the new year, let our every endeavor be infused with a sense of purpose, guided by the light of Christ. Purposeful action rooted in hope is a beacon that dispels the darkness of uncertainty.
**2. Hope in Speech and Expression:
Words carry immense power. In the new year, let our speech be a source of hope and encouragement. May our words reflect the love and compassion of Christ, uplifting those around us. Colossians 3:17 challenges us to speak in the name of the Lord Jesus, reminding us that our words can be instruments of healing, reconciliation, and hope.
**3. Hope in Thanksgiving:
Gratitude is a potent expression of hope. Colossians 3:17 calls us to give thanks to God the Father through Jesus. In the moments of joy and abundance, gratitude deepens our connection with the divine source of hope. In times of challenge, thanksgiving becomes an anchor, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and sustaining grace.
**4. Hope in Surrender:
As we embrace the new year, let us surrender our plans, fears, and uncertainties to the Lord. Hope flourishes in the soil of surrender. When we acknowledge that our journey is guided by a higher purpose, we find peace in the midst of life’s storms. Surrendering our ambitions to God’s will opens the door to a hope that transcends human understanding.
**5. Hope in Unity:
Colossians 3:17 emphasizes that our actions and expressions should be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus.” This underscores the importance of unity within the body of Christ. In the new year, let us strive for unity, recognizing that our collective hope is more potent than individual aspirations. United in purpose, we become agents of hope, transforming communities and spreading the light of Christ.
**6. Hope in Redemption:
The hope we embrace in the new year is anchored in the redemption offered through Jesus. Every word spoken, every deed performed, is an opportunity for redemption and transformation. Colossians 3:17 encourages us to see our actions as part of God’s redemptive plan, reminding us that no circumstance is beyond the reach of His hope.
**7. Hope That Overflows:
As we navigate the days and months ahead, let our hope overflow. Colossians 3:17 is an invitation to cultivate a hope that spills over into every facet of our lives. This overflowing hope becomes a testimony to the transformative power of Christ, drawing others into the warmth and brilliance of His love.
It is my prayer that hope will continue to be hetched in our hearts as we embark on this new year. Let’s embrace a hope that transforms, sustains, and guides us through the unknown. As we dedicate our words and deeds to the Lord Jesus, may our lives be a testament to the enduring hope found in the redemptive work of Christ.
May the hope of the new year be a beacon that leads us closer to God’s purpose for our lives.
Were you able to glean and grow from this message so God can be further glorified and His Kingdom magnified? If so, I would love to hear from you. Follow this link to get in touch… Let’s pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your presence in our lives,
We praise you Lord for the wisdom bestowed upon Paul,
And we ask you Lord to help us find joy in your perfect plan.
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through your Word, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by the truth as we spread the good news to one and all,
And lead the lost to You.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us,
To bless our lives and fill us with hope.
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and our place with you in Heaven
According to your ways, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done, here on Earth and through the vast Universe,
May our hearts be filled with your everlasting love and grace.
Praises to You God, Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
