“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)
Happy 2020! I’m looking forward to the new year. Time for a fresh start and new goals. For some people, including myself, 2019 was a trying year. But, as this verse says, there’s no reason to dwell on it. It’s in the past, and it can’t be changed. All we can do is learn from it and move forward into the new year.
Philosopher George Santyana is credited with the statement: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” While it’s good to recall the past and how far you’ve come, it’s not good to try and continue to live in the past. Learn from your mistakes and be encouraged by your accomplishments. Just don’t make a habit of dwelling on the past, particularly the disappointments.
There’s a reason the rearview mirror in a car is smaller than the windshield. We’re designed to keep our focus on what’s ahead, not what’s behind us.
This year, I want to fix my eyes on the Lord, take those steps of faith, and allow Him to lead. One of the things on the horizon for me is a devotional book I’m finishing up. I’ve been working on it for a couple years. I spoke to some editors at a conference in 2019, and I received a lot of positive feedback. I am excited to see what God has in store for me–as well as my writing, editing, and reviewing–in 2020. I look forward to sharing that journey with you, my readers.
What are you looking forward to this year? Share it in the comments.
Have a blessed, happy, and hope-filled 2020!
Happy New Year. Good luck with your book.
Thank you!
Blessed new year to you too, Leslie! I’m excited for you. God’s grace on your book project, my friend.
Thanks so much, Betsy! Blessings to you in 2020, as well.