Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, your vindication like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.
—Psalms 37:1-8

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New Year’s Horizon
By Jennifer Kane

The sky burns gold and crimson,
a quiet farewell whispered in fire.
The year fades into shadow,
but His voice steadies the trembling heart:
“Do not fret—darkness does not prevail.”

The night stretches long,
but the stars trace His promise.
“Delight in Me,” He says,
“I will fill the spaces left empty,
the dreams deferred, the hope deferred.”

Wait. Be still.
The turning of time is no threat to the Eternal.
Wrath will fade like smoke;
trust will rise like the dawn.

Morning spills light over the horizon,
a soft mercy painting the earth.
“Commit your way to Me,” He whispers,
“I will hold you steady through the years,
through the storms, through the silence.”

Let the old year pass;
its burdens dissolve like mist.
And as the new year wakes,
step into the glow of His faithfulness,
a path lit by unyielding grace.

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Scriptures: Psalm 37:1–8

As we close out one year and prepare for the next, Psalm 37:1–8 offers a rich and comforting roadmap for trusting in God amidst life’s uncertainties and challenges.

The past year may have brought moments of frustration, seeing others prosper through questionable means. Yet, we are reminded that their success is fleeting. Just as grass withers in the scorching heat, so too will the false foundations of the ungodly crumble. We are called to release our envy and trust in God’s ultimate justice.

Rather than focusing on what others have, God invites us to trust Him and find joy in His presence. True contentment comes not from circumstances but from delighting in the Lord. When our hearts align with His, we discover that He is our ultimate desire, and in Him, we are deeply satisfied.

We often enter a new year with resolutions and plans. This verse reminds us to roll those plans onto God, entrusting every detail to Him. When we surrender our ways to the Lord, He works in ways beyond our understanding, bringing clarity and purpose to our efforts.

Patience is a difficult but essential virtue, especially when waiting for God’s promises to unfold. Psalm 37:7–8 reminds us to trust His timing and avoid the emotional pitfalls of worry, anger, and frustration. God is faithful to act in His perfect timing.

Are there areas where you’ve been tempted to compare yourself to others or become discouraged by their apparent success? Bring these to God and ask Him for peace. As the new year begins, commit to seeking joy in God. Spend time in His Word and in prayer, feeding on His faithfulness daily. Write down your goals for the coming year. Pray over them, asking God to guide your steps and align your desires with His will.

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Heavenly Father, as we step into a new year, help us to trust You fully and rest in Your promises. Teach us to delight in Your presence, to commit our plans to You, and to wait patiently for Your perfect timing. May we find peace in Your faithfulness and joy in walking with You each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May this New Year’s Eve be a time of reflection, trust, and renewed hope as you prepare for the blessings and challenges of the year to come.

December 31 2024