A new year brings days of unseen challenge and unexpected joy. For some of us, adjusting to a new year feels disorientating and bewildering, but for others the beginning of a new year symbolises a fresh start and potential for change. No matter how you feel, the international Women's Ministries section has prepared twenty-two Scriptural truths to hold close to your heart in 2022:
- God will provide. ‘In all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work,’ Paul writes in 2 Corinthians.
- You can embrace your inner child. In Matthew 18:3, Jesus tells us to ‘become like little children.’ Ask questions, take risks, and laugh often! Don't say anything to yourself now that you wouldn't say to your younger self.
- Your voice matters. Each of us has a story to share, no matter how young or timid or inexperienced we may feel. Raise your voice with confidence!
- You need not worry about the future. As Corrie Ten Boom wrote: ‘Worry does not empty tomorrow of sorrow; but it empties today of strength.’
- You are forgiven. We all need forgiveness. God holds nothing against us and forgives freely, but we must also learn to forgive ourselves.
- An encouraging word can go a long way. ‘Sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.’ (Proverbs 16:24)
- It is OK not to be OK. When you are not doing so well, allow those you love and trust to care for you, remembering God is near.
- Your Lord is a storm-sleeper! When you feel caught in a storm, rest in the knowledge that Jesus has the power to calm the harsh and harmful elements.
- You are worthy. You are precious. This God-given worth is not based on what you do, how you look or who you know. It can never be taken away.
- God is with you. ‘Do not fear, for I am with you,’ says God. ‘Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.’ (Isaiah 41:10)
- Your words are powerful. They can harm or they can heal. James 3 helps us carefully consider the way we speak to each other.
- You are not past your best. Stop dwelling on past versions of you. Ecclesiastes 7:10 reminds us that it is not wise to long for the good old days.
- Love is incredibly patient. 1 Corinthians 13 give us a glimpse of God’s perfect love. This year, make time to practice this love to others and to yourself.
- God keeps his promises. Trustworthy and faithful in all he does, God will keep and see through his promises to his people.
- It is normal and healthy to feel like a work-in-progress. Expand your horizons, try new things, and allow God to complete his work in your life.
- You are beautiful. ‘I am fearfully and wonderfully made,’ reads Psalm 139:14. ‘Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.’
- God created you to live in community. We were never intended to live in total isolation, so spend time with people who enrich your life.
- Time resting is not time wasted. Without rest, our bodies and minds grow weak. Take time out to spiritually, physically, and mentally recharge.
- You have purpose. ‘You are a chosen people... that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness.’ (1 Peter 2:9)
- You do not need to have all the answers. We were not designed to know everything, but God is all-knowing. Trust that God's got it!
- God hears you. When we call on God in prayer, he listens to us: ‘You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.’ (Jeremiah 29:12-13)
- God loves you. Above all things, hold close to the truth that God loves you with an unconditional, everlasting, unfailing love.
