As I’ve entered this New Year, I’ve had a lot of hope for what lies ahead. I’m a futuristic person by nature, so I set my sights very high in all areas of my life: ministry, marriage, friendship—the list goes on and on. Because of this, it’s easy for me to get disappointed when what I dream for doesn’t happen. Unfortunately, I have a tendency to concentrate on the things that don’t happen rather than the good that’s around me.

When I’m stuck in this mindset, I find myself slipping into an attitude of ungratefulness towards what I do have, and I’m left with an empty longing for my unfulfilled dreams. Seems pretty backwards, right? Sadly, it’s a pretty easy pattern that all of us can fall into. Luckily, the Lord never allows me to stay there for very long. I’m blessed to have people in my life that I’ve asked to keep me accountable in this area. I’ve never regretted having people wiser than me share their counsel and advice. Through revelation from God and encouraging words from wise counsel, I’m learning to realign my thoughts and actions with the Word (Philippians 4:8), with the intention to be grateful in every circumstance—not to mention placing my focus and prayers on others rather than myself.

One of the resolutions my wife and I have for this year is to be intentional, giving purpose to everything we do.

Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

When we place God first, all other things fall into place. Let’s live this year with grateful hearts and allow our actions to follow!