I Surrender

"Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always"

Psalm 105:4 (NIV).

Tempted to list a bunch of resolutions for the new year, I ponder life's themes from 2011: small beginnings and confidence. I don't step into 2012 (or any year) with a clean slate. What I learned from last year, the year before that and the one before that, follows me. In fact, all life's lessons follow me like Peter Pan's shadow attached with needle and thread to the soles of my feet.

I can't separate the past from whom I am now or whom I want to become by the end of 2012, for the past shapes me and influences my future. I know what needs shedding, changing, and transforming: a few unwanted pounds, negative self-talk, doubting, unprecedented fear, to name a few. I know what's worth keeping and nurturing: daily solitude with my Lord, date nights, family time, a regular writing schedule and writing goals. 

Generally, I know where I'm headed - the specifics that lie between the past and December 31, 2012 remain a mystery. It's this unknown territory that I must surrender and accept at the same time. No one can control or resolve to do better when life surprises us with the unexpected, never-before-experienced situations.

So, before it all happens, I surrender and pray that where I've been prepared me, my heart and my mind for what's ahead. One thing I know, the God who has been faithful to carry me through the difficulties of the past, filled me with peace, provided for all my needs will be faithful for whatever the new year holds.  

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV).

What has your Peter Pan shadow attached to the souls of your feet? How has the past shaped your "now"? your future? Do you know the good that needs nurturing and the negative that needs shedding? Are  you comfortable surrendering the unknown?

May we covet to pray for one another this year, as the Lord leads? I'd be honored to pray with you. Feel free to leave a comment, a prayer request or private message me at d.aldrich@snet.net or on Facebook.

God's richest blessings for 2012!

Dawn