“[3] and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” — Isaiah 61:3 NIV
It’s a new year. And with gladness of heart, let’s receive it with joy. But to some, 1st January isn’t a joyful day, probably because they tend to reflect on the pain they’ve been through in the past year. If you’re in that category of people, I want you to know today that God will give you beauty for ashes this year going forward.
In Isaiah 61, the prophet described what the Lord would do for us when Jesus came to the world. Today, those words are no longer prophecies waiting to be fulfilled but are now happening in believers’ lives. The circumstances around your life may have been bad from day one. But this year, as long as you submit to the Lord in all your ways, get ready for Him to give you beauty for your ashes.
Tribulations will still come. But you’re more than a conqueror through Jesus Christ, who lives in you by His Spirit (see Romans 8:9, 37).
This year, believe God to do great things beyond your wildest imagination. Avoid making mental calculations of how things should work out once you submit your needs in prayer to the Lord. He is able to supersede what you’ve planned. Trust Him.
Happy new year!
Prayer:
Father, as I celebrate a new year, I choose to believe in You to exceed my expectations. Lead and guide me according to Your Word. In Jesus’ name. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 001
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