First Baptist Church: Looking forward to 2025
As we are just barely into 2025, we find ourselves in a season of reflection. The days seem to pass so quickly, and yet, each is filled with moments that shape who we are and draw us closer to God. Taking the time to pause, look back, and reflect on the year can provide us with clarity, gratitude, and renewed direction for what lies ahead. I am reminded of a verse from the Psalms from the writings of all people, Moses in Psalm 90:12 where he wrote, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” When we look at this verse in the context of this psalm, Moses is discussing the brevity of our lives and telling us the older we get, the more time becomes precious to us. And we need to utilize that time in reflecting and remembering God’s blessing in our lives.
When we stop and remember, we often see God's hand more clearly than we did in the moment. We can often see His faithfulness is woven into the victories, the challenges, and even the mundane. What blessings can you recall that may have been overlooked in the busyness of life? What struggles have turned into testimonies of His provision and grace? Moments of heartbreak may have carried unexpected lessons, while times of joy remind us of His abundant blessings. Reflect, breathe, and recognize—He was with you through it all.
Reflection is also a time for gratitude. The Apostle Paul reminds us to give thanks in all (not “for all”) circumstances. When we thank God for the small and big moments, for the triumphs and trials, our hearts align with His purposes. Gratitude shifts our focus away from our shortcomings and back to His immeasurable goodness. Looking back also prepares us to move forward with wisdom.
Psalm 90:12 calls us to “number our days.” This intentional numbering isn’t about regret for days lost, but about gaining a heart of wisdom—a heart that values each moment and seeks to steward the time God has given us. What dreams has God planted in your heart this year? Are there areas that He has nudged you to surrender fully to Him? And how can His faithfulness this past year encourage you to trust Him even more in the one to come?
This week, celebrate the good, surrender the hard, and step forward in faith. With God, endings are never final but transitions to new beginnings. Hold fast to His promises, and let the coming year be a testimony of His ongoing work in your life. May your heart find wisdom and peace as you reflect. While this is a great spiritual exercise we can do individually, it is even better when we can share it with others. So, please allow me the opportunity to invite you to begin the new year in church by visiting with us at Caruthersville First Baptist Church, 801 Ward Ave. We gather for Bible study time on Sunday mornings at 9:30 and then at 10:30 for worship. We meet at 5:00 on Sunday evenings for worship and a time of Bible study led by our pastor in our fellowship hall. We also have an online Bible study time on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 on our Caruthersville First Baptist Church Facebook page. We would love to have you visit with us!