The final week of the year can often be a time of reflection as we look back across the last twelve months and ponder what the Lord may have planned for us in the New Year.
With just 6 days left in 2018, at a time when the stock market is riding like a roller coaster and nerves are frayed on a variety of levels, I want to share a touching prayer with you and one that can help frame your goals and plans for 2019. But first, I want to mention how the Lord has blessed the work of the ministry. As a supporter, you are part of this ongoing effort.
I am amazed at what God has allowed us to do with the generous financial gifts of our friends. As one donor recently said to me, “I trust you to run Focus effectively and efficiently, so that my wife and I can do ministry through it with our giving.”
At first, his comments rocked me back in my seat, but I quickly realized he was right. We take this trust seriously and work tirelessly to make sure that every donation is used in a way that brings Glory to God and advances the mission to help those most in need.
From rescuing babies from abortion to helping save and strengthen marriages to providing world-class counseling services and practical parenting advice, the ministry of Focus is clearly needed more today then when we began over 40 years ago. Our daily broadcast continues to reach over 6 1/2 million people each week, many of whom are exploring Christianity for the first time. Every generation has its challenges but the acute nature of today’s woes, whether it’s the rising suicide epidemic or the opioid crisis, demands a timely and practical response. This is where Focus on the Family comes in. You name the problem facing individuals and families and we have a resource or program to address it.
As you consider your year-end giving, please do keep us in mind, won’t you? We’re only able to minister to others by the financial gifts of our friends. The need is particularly urgent this year.
Here is the prayer for the New Year that was written by Trevin Wax, the director for Bibles and Reference at LifeWay Christian Resources. He adapted it from the first 21 of Jonathan Edwards’ resolutions. As you set goals and make resolutions for 2019, it is always good to first seek the Lord’s direction.
Lord God Almighty,
I understand that I am unable to do anything without your help,
so I ask you to enable me by your grace to fulfill your will.
Give me grace to do whatever brings most glory and honor to you,
pleasure and profit to me,
and life and love to others.
Help me to number my days,
spending my time wisely,
living my life with all my might while I still have breath.
Humble me in the knowledge that I am chief of sinners;
when I hear of the sins of others,
help me to not look upon them with pride,
but to look upon myself with shame,
confessing my own sins to you.
When I go through difficulties and trials,
remind me of the pains of hell
from which you have already delivered me.
Place people in my path who need my help,
and give me a compassionate and generous spirit.
Fill my heart with such love
that I would never do anything out of a spirit of revenge,
nor lose my temper with those around me.
Hold my tongue when I am tempted to speak evil of others.
Thank you for the gospel and for the hope of glory.
Help me to live in light of these truths every day of my life,
so that when the time of my death arrives,
I will rest assuredly in you,
and you will be most glorified in me.
Are you setting any big goals and dreams for next year? I’d love to hear them.
Thank you for considering partnering with us to help families – and God’s best to you and yours in 2019!
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