As we enter the new year, it’s not hard to carry what we have endured from 2019 to 2021 into 2022. We have all been through a lot. It has been one of the most unpredictable periods of our lives. People have been let go from work, while others retired for numerous reasons.
No one can tell what will happen at every step of this life. The weariness we have encountered through various circumstances has left many feeling exhausted. It’s easier to carry the same attitudes, energy and emotions into 2022. No one can predict every step we will face, except God.
The decisions we make are often a reflection of the state of mind we are currently in. It’s about making choices that add or subtract to how worried or anxious we feel. Our prayers ease the burdens we try to carry on our own by submitting every burden to God. We are hoping for a light season so that we can rest on God’s hand than on our intellect, conclusions or strength.
Every year brings something different. The restrictions imposed on the world have derailed most people’s plans. The season of dealing with unpredictable events showed us that we don’t control what happens in life. Some of us might have forgotten how to plan our days or year due to fear of what might happen that’s beyond our control.
One thing I have observed is the yearning for more experiences and moments that are more meaningful. It has been a time where no one wants to spend in a place that they don’t want to invest their energy and time in.
The best outcome in life is not from having a life that is predictable and perfect, but it’s about embracing imperfections and unpredictable events. The act of surrender lightens the load. People started to relax in situations that would bring restlessness. Everything was slowed down. The pain of losing people close to us was unexpected, while the funerals became simpler, due to unplanned restrictions.
Burdens that we carried due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have left others unable to move forward. At the same time, others have let go of the need to be perfect human beings. The effects of PTSD can linger on, even way after the events have passed. It’s important to seek comfort in God and to speak to people who can understand your trauma.
A year without failures or losses is unlikely. But a year where we rest in the Lord’s finished works would be a great ideal. Only if we could stop striving and enter into a place of rest. We will enjoy life more than we have had in the past. Plan your year and rest in the Lord more than ever before.
