Waiting. We're always waiting for something. An appointment, a break at work, a vacation. A better job, a better income, a better car. Some waiting is simple; some is complex, such as waiting on medical results or waiting for the return of one's health. There are many things we wait for. The list could go on.        

As the new year approaches, many of us are waiting for a new start. I know I am. I ant to feel renewed. I want my old self to be a new and better me.   

The start of the new year invites the planning of new goals or accomplishments for us. However, as the new year sets in, we may find ourselves waiting--or stalling. This may happen for a variety of reasons, but is likely to occur due to (1)procrastination, or, (2)waiting for something we may not have control over, such as health status or finances.          

However, there are answers to the frustration of waiting. As one who procrastinates on new projects, I'd like to share two Bible verses that have been helpful to me:   
The first one is from Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," and secondly, a verse from Isaiah 41:10, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." - Isaiah 41:10

When patience is needed for waiting, another verse (Isaiah 40:31) offers reassurance:      
"But they who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." 

So, what are you waiting for? It's one thing if you have a need to be met that requires the patience of waiting. On the other hand, if waiting is due to procrastination, the "What are you waiting for?" line serves as a reminder to get quit stalling and get moving! 

Whatever it is that you are waiting for, here is a New Year's prayer for you:      
Dear God: To whomever is reading this, may they have the strength, courage, and determination to achieve the goals they have set and the patience to persevere while waiting. Amen.        
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A Mini Questionnaire for your New Year: 
1)List one thing you'd like to accomplish in the new year: _______ 
2)Write down the first step you'll take in accomplishing your goal:  ________

I woke up suddenly from a deep sleep with an image in my mind: I was holding out my hands in front of me with my palms up, but there was nothing in my hands. They were empty. 

Over recent weeks, I'd prayed fervently--and daily--for dear people close to me who have been dealing with serious medical issues. I couldn't help but worry about their diagnosis, how it was affecting their physical and mental health, as well as their quality of life, and what the coming weeks and months would hold. 

When the image of my open hands appeared, it happened to be at a particularly odd time, 11:11 p.m. At that moment, I felt as if I was being helped, guided, and persuaded--all at once. I was certain this was an answer to prayer about all of these concerns. I realized my job was not to worry, but instead to trust God. The worry was lifted from me. My hands felt suddenly light as a sense of peace washed over me.     

God had removed the weight of my worries and fears and taken them upon Himself. They were not mine to hold onto.      

God's message was clear. It was as if He was saying, It's Out of Your Hands. End of story. Period.
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May you, too, have a complete sense of peace knowing that all you can give all your worries to God. 
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"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."  
- Matthew 11:28-30