Another Year of Choices
By Barbara Dahlgren
One of my favorite scriptures is Psalm 118:24: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” That means every day is a brand new gift from God. Each new day is full of opportunities and possibilities. It’s another chance to hold loved ones near, to enjoy creation, to praise and worship God. And we are commanded to rejoice and be glad IN it – not in spite of it or after it’s over – but IN it!
There’s no denying that some days are good and some are not so good, but there is always some positive aspect to be found. Our job is to search it out! Far too many rob themselves of appreciating today by living in regret of yesterday and fear of tomorrow. Let’s face it – yesterday is gone and there is no guarantee for tomorrow, so today is all we have.
So how can we make the most of each and every day the Lord has made and given to us? Here are few suggestions…
- Be glad! Find something, anything to be happy about! (Psalm 118:24)
- Rejoice! Give God praise and worship no matter how we feel! (Philippians 4:4)
- Be thankful! Find something, anything to be thankful for! (Colossians 2:6-7, Psalm 95:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:18)
- Stay in constant communication with God. Say short prayers all day long. (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
- Laugh at least once every day! (Proverbs 17:22)
- Notice and enjoy a little of God’s creation. (Psalm 8:1-4)
- Think good thoughts and the best of others! (Philippians 4:8)
- Don’t worry or fear! Worry and fear cannot solve problems. (Philippians 4:6, Psalm 56:3-4)
- Turn problems over to God! (Philippians 4:6)
- Trust God! Whisper the words “I trust you Lord” often. (Proverbs 3:5, Psalm 34:8, Psalm 62:8)
- Keep minds focused on Jesus! (Isaiah 26:3, Hebrews 12:2)
- Savor God’s love. Nothing can separate us from God’s love. He is with us always. (Romans 8:38-39; Matthew 28:20b)
- Remember, it’s not about us; it’s about God. So do everything for His glory. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Consider this… This is the day that the Lord has made. Throw your loving arms around it and embrace it! It is a gift from God.
Suggestions for practicing this choice…
Just for today, find at least one thing to be thankful for.
Just for today, think the best of others.
Just for today, whisper “I trust you, Lord” all day long.
Just for today, say short prayers all day long.
And tomorrow… do it all again!
