A Year of Great Expectation

As we stand at the close of another year, we are reminded of the fleeting nature of time, and the precious gift God has given us in each passing day. Moses prayed, “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). When we look back over the past year, we see moments of joy and growth, as well as challenges and hardships. Through all of these, God has remained faithful. His mercies “are new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22-23), and His steadfast love has carried us through each season. The end of a year invites us to reflect, not with regret or fear, but with gratitude for God’s guidance and strength.

The turning of the calendar also invites us to look forward. As Christians, we are people of hope. The Lord calls us to walk “by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7), trusting that whatever lies ahead, He will walk beside us. The world may be uncertain, but our confidence remains secure in Christ. Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Let us step into 2026 with an eager expectation, not for worldly success or empty resolutions, but for spiritual growth, deeper fellowship, and greater devotion to the Lord.

One of the greatest opportunities before us is the challenge of reading through the Bible in 2026. God’s Word is described as “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). It is living, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). It is able to build us up and give us an inheritance (Acts 20:32). Imagine what God can do in our congregation if every member commits to reading His word daily, from Genesis to Revelation. We grow closer to Him when we listen to Him. We grow closer to one another when we share what we learn.

Reading the Bible through is not simply a task to complete but a journey to enjoy. It strengthens faith (Romans 10:17), deepens understanding (Proverbs 2:6), fuels evangelism (1 Peter 3:15), and draws our hearts nearer to the Lord (James 4:8). As disciples, we are called to “desire the pure milk of the word” that we may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). This is not a challenge we undertake alone, but we are doing this together as congregation, encouraging one another daily.

As we close this year, let us thank God for His blessings. And as we enter the new year, let us commit ourselves more fully to Him. May 2026 be a year of great expectation, a year in which the Flatwoods church of Christ reads God’s Word, lives God’s Word, and shares God’s Word. With hearts fixed on Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), we confidently move forward. Whatever 2026 holds, we know that God will provide, protect, and strengthen us.

And may the Word of God dwell in us richly (Colossians 3:16) as we give Him glory in all we do.

God Bless