Leftovers: Worth Finishing Up

DEC 26 / Sunday – Overview  |  Luke 2:25-40

Christmas foods can do more than add to our waistline – they can help us see what God was doing back then, and what God is doing today.

27 / Mon – 5000 guests for dinner  |  Read Matthew 14:13-21

All four gospel writers record this famous story in the New Testament. As you read the eyewitness account, what stands out to you? Contrast how much they had in the beginning with how much was left over. What do you notice about the disciples? How did Jesus respond when the problem was brought to him? Have you ever wondered what happened to the leftovers? What does this story teach you about God? Is there a time when he gave you much more than you asked for?

28 / Tue – Looking back  |  Read Hebrews 10:32-36 / Matthew 28:20b

There are only 4 days left of 2021. Take some time to reflect and maybe write down your thoughts. What are some blessings you never expected when this year began? What are difficulties you never dreamed you would encounter? How has God provided for you? What losses brought grief? Did you experience peace in the storm? What things happened this year to give you hope? Remind your soul that the Lord promises to be with you in the days ahead just as he has been in days past.

29 / Wed – Tying up loose ends  |  Read Matthew 18:21-22 / Mark 11:25 / Philippians 4:13

Nothing is more damaging than carrying leftover unforgiveness into the future. It eats away at your soul, distorting your perspective, stealing your joy. The hurts you have been dealt may be legitimate wounds. The instigator might never express remorse. But you can still make the choice to forgive. Don’t put it off. Say it out loud, in the presence of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Repeat as needed. Remind yourself, and the devil, whenever he brings it up again. Who do you need to forgive?

30 / Thu – Don’t ignore the nudges  |  Read Matthew 5:23-24

When you have learned to forgive, you may find yourself more aware of how you have hurt and offended others. Sometimes it comes up when you’re in conversations with the Lord. If so, that is the Holy Spirit showing you those you need to ask forgiveness from. You may be tempted to ignore those uncomfortable nudges but don’t. Your response is vital to your spiritual health, so obey. It is an important way to tie up loose ends from the past. Who must you talk to before the year ends?

31 / Fri – Goodbye  |  Read 2 Corinthians 12:8-9 / Romans 8:28

The last day of this year has finally arrived. You may be more than ready to say goodbye. Any last words you would like to offer? This is a good time to commit the past year to the Lord before you shut the door. Can you express gratitude for the way he has been with you each step? Can you give him all your unresolved problems or unanswered questions and find peace knowing that he makes everything all right in the end? Will you trust him as you move into what lies ahead?

01 / Sat – Hello  |  Read Matthew 6:33 / Psalm 25:4-5 (a prayer)

Here it is – the first day of the new year. For many people, it has the feel of a fresh start, the chance to make course corrections. Do you have any new resolutions in mind? What will you do differently today than you did yesterday? Jesus’ words can help you evaluate decisions as you move forward. Commit them to memory. Use them as a filter. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you start every new day with this in mind. Will you resolve to daily let him show you his ways and teach you his truth?