Your life will be filled with blessings

At some points in life, there could be one challenge or trial followed by another. Maybe you’ve faced some unfortunate, unfair or hurtful situations. You may perhaps have had defeats or setbacks. Or possibly, the clock is ticking on your dream. And after all-too-many difficulties and disappointments, you might become passive and sit back discouraged. Over time, you may just retire from really living as you say to yourself, “What’s the use?” “Things aren’t going right for me,” or “There is nothing good in my future.”

But today is a new day. And God wants to give you a fresh start. I read a passage in the Bible where God told Joshua, “Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all these people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel.” (Joshua 1:2).

After losing Moses, Joshua could have felt as though his life were finished. His circumstances seemed insurmountable. And Joshua may have been intimidated, fearful and worried about the days ahead.

Yet, Joshua still had important work to accomplish. Then God said to him, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Joshua 1:5).

So with obedience and steadfast faith, Joshua moved passed the worries, fears and insecurities. With strength and courage, Joshua allowed God to lead him forward. God gave Joshua a fresh start and opened up an entire new chapter in his life that was filled with success and prosperity. (Joshua 1:8).

As God was with Joshua, so He is with you. God has not brought you as far as this to leave you here. So, “Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9).

And so, forget the mistakes, setbacks and the regrets of the past. Cease replaying in your mind the unfair situations and break out of the rut of mediocrity. Then, start reaching again for your Godinspired goals. There is so much more ahead for you. You have enormous potential and possibility for growth. So don’t build a case against yourself with negative thoughts and words. Stop saying, “I can’t…” and “I’m not able to succeed,” and start repeating, “With God, I can do all things,” and “My next days will be my best days.” Then, dare to reach higher. Something good is on the verge of happening in your life. There are hundreds of possibilities before you, for you have something extraordinary and invaluable to offer to others. For soon there will be turnarounds in your circumstances. Your day of victory is on its way. God is getting ready to open up a whole new chapter in your life that will be filled with His abundant blessings.

A few years ago, a friend of mine lost her corporate job. She is a single mom raising two children, and the loss of her long-term career came as a huge shock. One afternoon, we met at a local diner for lunch, and she described how hurt she was solemnly questioning what she should do next.

“OK,” I told her, “You had a major setback.” Then, I uttered, “However, you are so talented, hardworking and you’re great with people. So, look at this as an opportunity to pursue something that you really love.”

My friend smiled, as that encouragement seemed to be the boost that she needed. “Really search your heart. Stay true to yourself and get beyond the pain. God is with you, and He will help you,” I said sincerely.

Contemplating, my friend leaned closer to me and replied, “Well, you know how much I love books.” I nodded in agreement.

Next, she declared, “I must admit, I have always wanted to own my own used bookstore.” Immediately, I affirmed, “There’s no time like right now!”

It wasn’t long thereafter, that I received a note from my friend letting me know that she just bought a thrift shop. The shop has been up and running for six months, so she did not have to worry about any startup costs. The location was perfect for her; close to her home and on a very busy route. The woman who originally started the shop just didn’t have the time to put into it. Thus, it was an inexpensive way for my friend to get her foot in the door to having her own business. She plans on bringing all the used books in herself, and some of the people she used to work with even volunteered to help her organize the shop.

My friend wrote, “God provided and sent me this opportunity at just the perfect time. I’ve been holding out the past few months for just the right situation, sure that the right thing would come along if I was patient enough and believed the breakthrough I had been waiting for could materialize.”

Moreover, in the years that followed, my friend met a wonderful man, and they married. Her daughters are doing well, and her new business is now thriving. My friend says she is happier than ever before, and her life is blessed.

So, “Keep your mind on things that are above,” (Colossians 3:2) “Put a new song in your mouth,” (Psalm 40:3) and trust God for past injustices, for “He will perfect what concerns you.” (Psalm 138:8)

Regardless of what you’ve been through, today is a new beginning. It’s a brand new chapter that will be overflowing with meaning, contentment and happiness. Hence, day by day, notice all the blessings in your life. And with a heart of gratitude, keep rejoicing in God. Then, keep an eye out for what God will do next. Get ready— expect great things. New friendships, new opportunities and new joys are waiting in your future. Forget what is behind and press on.

Your life will be filled with blessings. God is going to surprise you with His goodness!