There are many ways to prepare for the New Year. For Mike and I, 2016 has been a wonderful year, but for many others, I have heard it has been pretty grueling.
When you get to the end of a hard year, it’s always easy to say good bye to it. 2017 will be better.
I remember 2004 as my most awful year. So many horrible things happened that year but it all seemed to end in November 2004 when I turned 40. Christmas 2004 was a wonderful Christmas. 12 years ago when I was looking back at 2004 and all the negativity of the year, I pondered in my mind and heart what 2005 would be like. What if it was also a difficult year? How would I cope?
I set my mind to ensure that I was well prepared for the next year. I got fit, re-did my schedule so that I had more time to relax and the year turned out fine.
Whatever lies ahead in 2017, put your mind, body and soul into gear – aim to get a great balance going.
There are 5 things I try and do every year.
- I always try and exercise – I need to do more this year.
- I always try to eat healthily. While I have completely fallen off the “Bant Wagon” I am absolutely going to pick up the pieces and start afresh. In fact, I have 4 steps to getting back on the Bant wagon which I am going to make my blog on Saturday.
- Keeping up with family and friends is important to me. These are the people that hold me up when I am down and for whom I do the same. They need to be a priority.
- Then my work. I love my work. I want to do the best I can. What a privilege.
- Last but absolutely not least, I read through the Bible ever year. You can get a one-year Bible reading plan here. I find it so profitable. It’s one thing to know what’s in the Bible – it’s another altogether to be reminded of what’s in the Bible each day. It is my daily bread. Daily I read the account of Biblical characters who made mistakes and had consequences; I am reminded of my own sin, of the right way to live and how important obedience is. God speaks to me in His Word – when I read it, I get the message! It really is direction for life. This morning this is what I read…
Proverbs 31:8-9
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Good reminder.
It takes some organisation to effectively put these 5 in place. When I do have them all sorted, I feel I am living my best life.
Roll on 2017.
#146 of my 1000 thanks is for easy to move appliances. I cleaned behind the fridge and the stove. High five!
These are the days!
Keep the smile going.
God bless you!
In His Grip,
Helga xx