A New Year Blessing
“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” 3 John 1:2
I needed to find something that would encourage my friend, who experienced a challenging year in 2020. My heart was aching as I picked up the phone to call her. Putting my phone back down on the table, I prayed. Lord, help me to say words that will encourage and bless her. As I prepared my heart and mind, 3 John 1 came to mind. With Christ strength, I made the call and consoled her as we reminisced on some of the painful memories of 2020. Deaths, illnesses, flooding and job loss plagued our memories. Oh, and that COVID thing! It was a challenging year.
But, in all of what we experienced, I reminded her of God’s promises. It is a relief to know that God’s character doesn’t change. He can’t lie. He can’t deceive. If God makes a promise, then we know it will come to pass. His reputation is stellar, and He won’t do anything to jeopardize that.
Ending the call with her, I read 3 John 1:2 and we prayed. If you are looking forward to the rest of this year and the blessings that are to come, here is my new year blessing prayer for you.
Prayer
Eternal Father, who is the same today as you were yesterday and will be tomorrow, great is your name. Lord, your word tells us that you bless the righteous and surround us with your favour like a shield. Cover my friend reading this with your loving banner. May they be unified with your will and way, living like a well-watered garden, springing forth good fruit in every season. In times of trouble and adversity, may they trust you and lean on your strength and understanding. When fear and anxiety threatens to overwhelm them, help them to remember that you are God, and there is nothing greater than you. There is no mountain too high, river too wide, or space too great that will separate them from your love and promises. Even though we don’t know what the future holds, heavenly Father, fill them with comfort in knowing that you have great plans in store for their life; plans for them to prosper and not harm, plans of bright hope and a future. Lord, fill them with grace upon grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Blessing:
My friend, may the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.