Preparing for 2024

“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.” Psalm 98:1

For a writer, a blank page is both exciting and frightening. It offers freedom of inspiration as well as potential frustration. Even though there are endless opportunities to create, the possibility of finding yourself stuck is just as real. Today, in the first week of 2024, we find ourselves holding a journal with a bunch of blank pages and a pen. Nothing has been written so far.

What are you going to do with your pages? Will you rise to the challenge and fill it with chapters of faith, trust, and courage? Or, will you falter from the pressure and never put pen to paper?

Who will be the main character in your story? Will everything center on you – your wants, needs, and desires? Will you make much of yourself? Or will you write stories that speak of humility, encouragement, and ensuring God and others get to play the part of a hero?

How will you allow God to weave His way through the tale you are telling with the pages you’ve been given? As people read your story, will they notice His presence in your life? Will they be awakened to His greatness and worth?

Look at the pen in your hand. A great story requires you to write. It involves stepping into the unknown and creating. Don’t let fear, complacency, anger, or worry keep you from writing your story. Get writing.

Close your retreat by writing out a prayer to God for 2024. Ask that you would sense His presence, rely on His promises, and recognize His provision. Declare your trust and dependency. Ask for courage and a willingness to step out in faith. 

Maybe throughout this experience, you’ve begun to consider a “One Word”  for the upcoming year. We’d encourage you to take the insight you’ve gained from this personal retreat and utilize January to engage in the process of picking a word. Visit www.portcity.church/word for more details and resources.