The Single Journey at New Years

December 26, 2016


“Forget the former things, do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing, now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
-Isaiah 43:18-19-

I have shared before about how the holidays can be one of the most difficult times in a single persons life. Many sweet friends of mine (and myself!) struggle through this holiday season where the loneliness can feel like a constant ache. I shared in my post, "10 things to pray for your single friend during the holiday season" that loneliness can feel more acute during this season. I have been so thankful for sweet friends who have texted me and sent cards during this holiday season that addressed this specific topic.

New Years can be particularly rough for singles. As we consider closing a chapter on one year and remembering all that has taken place we remember the highs and lows, the good times and difficult times and a year that was filled with wishing and hoping for “the one”. 

As we close the door on one year and lay it before the Lord and approach a new year, let us be reminded of God's promises of making all things new. “Forget the former things, do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing, now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18-19) God tells us that “there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the Heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). This new year and new season before us is open wide with possibilities and promise. As we think and plan for the new year let us remember that “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) 

The Lord knows our desires and hopes of romance for this coming year. Let us pray that He will guide and establish our steps. One of my favorite verses is from Habakkuk  2:3: "Though it linger, wait for it, it will certainly come and not delay.”

 In the midst of the hustle and bustle of resolutions and goals let our hearts cry out for us to spend more time with the Lord and for a greater faith for this coming year. Our hope as singles for this coming year might be that the Lord would bring us the romance and husband we have been longing for. But let us lay all of our hopes and desires before the Lord. Let us trust the Lord that He can bring anything to pass- even more than we could ever imagine. (Ephesians 3:20-21) No matter when our time for love comes, let us trust Him. He will bring this to pass. “Though it linger, wait for it, it will certainly come and not delay.” (Habakkuk 2:3) 

Let us pray that as we approach this new year that God would teach us the delicate balance of having faith for the future and living each day to the fullest. “Teach me to number my days so that I may have a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Teach us Lord to value each day as a single so that we may gain wisdom for this season and for the future. Wisdom comes from Him alone. Let us have one goal for this New Year- to know the Lord more. “Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom…” (Psalm 111:10) As we start this New Year let us look forward to what God have in store for us and hold fast to His promises. 

“Look… and be utterly amazed… for I am doing something that you would not believe- even if you had been told.” 
-Habakkuk 1:5-

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