“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits”. ~Psalm 103:1-2
As we approach the new year, filled with fresh goals and new visions, it’s important to pause and reflect on the blessings of the past year. Psalm 103 reminds us not to forget all the good things God has done for us. Taking time to look back will fill your heart with gratitude and rekindle your faith for what’s to come.
2024 has been a year of highs and lows for many of us. Maybe you experienced healing in a broken relationship, unexpected financial provision, or strength to endure challenges. Perhaps prayers you whispered in private became answers you now hold dear. These are the benefits of walking with a faithful God.
But it’s also important to acknowledge your own achievements. So often, we focus on what we haven’t completed or the prayers we’re still waiting to see answered, and we forget how far we’ve already come. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back for the milestones you’ve reached this year. Maybe you launched a project, overcame a personal fear, stuck to a commitment, or simply grew stronger in your faith. These accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem, are worth celebrating.
Take a moment to reflect. Grab a notebook or journal and write down everything you can recall about this year. Consider areas like relationships, work, family, personal growth, and even the prayers that seemed small at the time but made a big difference. I do this every year, and many times I start by going through my photos or my journal. As you begin to remember those moments and list them, you might be surprised by just how much God has done—and how much you have accomplished.
After making your list, spend time in prayer and praise. Thank God for His faithfulness, provision, and love. Play worship music or read Psalm 103 aloud, letting its words remind you of His goodness. Share your gratitude with family or friends, inspiring them to do the same.
As you reflect, let your faith be rekindled for 2025. If God has been faithful before, He will be faithful again. The same God who brought you through this year will lead you into the next.
Pause, reflect, and bless the Lord for all His benefits. You’ll find your heart renewed with hope for the journey ahead.
Rejoicing with you for all the blessings of 2024 and standing with you in faith for an even big(ger) and brighter 2025!