Rooted in Hope: My Favorite Passage to Start the New Year

Happy New Year, friends!

As we welcome 2025, I want to share a passage that holds a special place in my heart—a scripture that has encouraged me time and time again:

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” — Jeremiah 17:7-8

This imagery of a tree, deeply rooted and constantly nourished, gives me hope for whatever lies ahead. No matter the challenges or changes a new year may bring, when we trust in the Lord, we are strengthened by His steadfast love.

On this last day of 2024, let this quote from Dr. Adrian Rogers bring comfort and encouragement:

"We don't know what the coming year will bring—sickness, heartache, or trouble. But I do know that you can boldly say, 'The Lord will be my helper. I will not fear what man shall do to me.' Find your contentment, your companionship, and your confidence in Jesus. In Him you will find your comfort and your courage."

Jeremiah’s words remind us that God’s faithfulness is unchanging, no matter what circumstances come our way. This truth is echoed in Psalm 46:1-2:
"God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore, we will not be afraid, though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas."

And let us not forget the beautiful promise found in Job 8:7:
"Although your former state was ordinary, your future will be extraordinary."

As we step into 2025, let’s resolve to trust Him with every detail of our lives. He is our source of life and strength, always present and always providing.

Reflecting on His Faithfulness: Recently, I came across my mom’s prayer notebook. Each page was filled with scripture passages and notes she wrote during various seasons of her life. One evening, as she rested, we went through it together, recalling God’s faithfulness. She shared the stories behind each verse—the prayers answered, the lessons learned, the peace found.

I miss her dearly, but her legacy of trust in the Lord continues to inspire me. That tender moment reminded me to reflect on how God has carried me through and to encourage others to do the same.

Encouragement for the New Year: As women, we often carry so much—responsibilities, worries, and hopes for those we love. But this year, let’s begin by planting our trust deeply in God’s promises.

His Word assures us in Isaiah 40:31: "But those who trust in the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary; they will walk and not faint."

Dr. Ed Welch beautifully reminds us in When People Are Big and God Is Small:
"God is not distant. He is our Father who draws near to us in our fears and walks with us in our trials."

Let these truths fill your heart with courage and joy for the year ahead.

Here’s a gentle challenge to inspire your 2025:

• Reflect on the ways God has been faithful in the past year. Write them down in a journal or notebook.

• Choose a favorite scripture to carry with you through the year.

• Share your reflections with someone—your spouse, a friend, or even in the comments below.

My Prayer for You

As you begin this new year, I pray that your heart will be deeply rooted in God’s Word, your days filled with His peace, and your life overflowing with His goodness. Whatever this year may bring, may we stand firm, knowing we are held by the One who never fails.

Here’s to a 2025 filled with hope, joy, and the steadfast love of our Savior! Let’s remain planted by the stream, drawing strength from His unending faithfulness.

Happy New Year, and may God bless you abundantly! 

2025 is going to be amazing!