Assembly of God

By Sheryl Franco

Co-pastor

Nothing about New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day was “normal.” But we had become familiar with the “abnormal” in 2020, so we just rolled with it.

We awoke on Jan. 1, with optimistic expectation that this year would be better than the last. There is somehow an implied promise of better things ahead when we have just come through an especially difficult season, and the year in front of us seems full of hope and possibility. And then we wake up day after day, and the confidence in future good things begins to dim as we continue to deal with the struggles from last year.

God’s promises are more than implied. His promises and intentions don’t appear on an inspirational Facebook post or temporary billboard. His promises are true, steadfast, reliable, and personal. They are contained in his word, the Bible, for us to discover and apply daily.

What promise do you need to hear from God today? Do you need peace? Isaiah 32:17 says, “And the effect of righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quietness and trust forever.” Do you need rest? Look at Psalm 4:8: “In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Do you need peace that the world around you can’t supply? See John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” If what is written here doesn’t speak to you, a quick Google search can reveal lists of encouraging Scriptures to bring peace to your mind and soul. Search “The promises of God in Scripture” or “Scriptures on peace.”

Keep relying on his promises and quote them to yourself. When you pray, remind him of his promises. Build that faith muscle by watching as God fulfills his promises day in and day out. God wants you to know his promises and claim his promises. Make a promise to yourself to dig into those promises this year.