It is typical for corporations, organizations, churches and other institutions to create themes or visions for a new year. Once they have come up with the vision statement or theme, it can guide them in their decision-making as well as in the priorities they set for the upcoming months. If these groups take vision planning so seriously, it makes sense that we as families could benefit from developing a New Year’s vision to guide and direct us. Of course, the key to the vision’s success is including God and allowing his Word and Spirit to mold our family’s vision. Much different than a business vision, your family’s theme for 2009 doesn’t need to include budget projections and new hire goals, but, rather, it should include statements about where God is leading each individual family member and how you can work together to support and encourage each other in the unique vision God has given to each one. Jeremiah 29:11 states: “‘I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” Isn’t it comforting and encouraging to know that God has a plan for your life and for the lives of your children and spouse? You see, God doesn’t expect us to come up with plans and visions all on our own. He wants to give us a plan—HIS perfect plan. The truth is that any plan or vision we create on our own is going to fall short; it will absolutely pale in comparison to the one God wants to give us. The exciting part is that God’s plan is the one that will help us to fulfill our life’s purpose. Perhaps one of the most beautiful aspects of parenting, and even marriage, is to witness the ones we love the most reach their potential through God’s plan for their lives. However, we must keep in mind that in order to help ourselves and our family members claim this vision and plan God has for us, we must depend on Him and Him alone. In other words, we cannot build this vision on our own strength. Too often, we want to be in control of things. We believe we know what is best for our future and for the future of our spouse and children. But scripture tells us that “unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain” (Psalm 127:1). Our own plans and ideas about what is best just don’t cut it. It’s all in vain unless we let our very capable God of the Universe, Immanuel, King of Kings, to build our vision and lay out the blueprints for our future. Sometimes it is difficult to let go and truly trust God with our plans and goals. Let’s make 2009 the year that we live out God’s vision for our lives. Forget the New Year’s resolutions and man-centered goals and instead look to God for your 2009 family vision. Imagine what He might do with each family member and with your family as a whole! You can find comfort and peace, knowing that depending on Him will give your vision true, eternal purpose. Cling to Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” May God’s blessings be upon you and your family in 2009. © 2009 by Jewell R. Powell is a marriage coach and author of Marriage 101: Building a Life Together by Faith. Visit her website at www.marriage101.us for a free newsletter and information.
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