We are at the beginning of a New Year and entering unfamiliar territory. It may seem dark and anxiety laden. But whether you feel slight trepidation or total chaos ensuing, you have a choice to make.

The earth was formless and empty, and darkness covered the deep waters. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters.

Genesis 1:2

Elohim looked and acted. Our Strong-Creator God formed light and life OUT of nothing! In the beginning He created (Genesis 1:1). And even after sin entered His “very good” Creation (1:31), He set out to recover man from the chaos (3:15). He is still very much involved with His Creation to this day.

No matter how messed up your life feels at the start of a new year:

Elohim is a God who transforms a mess into a miracle. He transforms darkness into light. He transforms the desolate, uninhabitable recesses of your soul into places of fertile growth.

Tony Evans, The Power of God’s Names

Will you join me as we put one foot in front of the other and follow truth throughout this new Year growing in fertile soil?  

“So, brothers and sisters, secure your footing IN THE LORD. A strong footing comes as we rejoice IN THE LORD; that is, make delighting in His presence a daily pursuit. As Christ’s followers, we have so much to rejoice in, so let your light-heartedness be felt! But not only that, display a gentle spirit when you encounter others throughout the day. As His ambassadors remember: Our LORD is about to return! There is no reason to become anxious. Instead, kneel in prayer, and petition the Lord for everything that concerns you. Give Him the thanks He deserves for listening and caring and creating! When you do follow through with these commands, God’s peace will shield your heart and mind so you can rest IN HIM! He’s got you covered! But do not allow your mind to wander here and there and everywhere. Discipline your mind to dwell on the good, lovely, true, and honorable, things that are just and praiseworthy. And then, you will know the God of peace in a very intimate way as you journey through 2023!”

Philippians 4:1, 4-9, Scarlett’s paraphrase

In this way, I hope you will secure your footing for 2023!