Winter Project

I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint. Jeremiah 31:25 (NIV)

This time of year is always thought of as a time to start new, begin a new year on different terms. Losing weight, cleaning out the closets and restoring relationships are high up on our to-do lists, but quickly slide off as the weeks and months progress.

Spiritually, we can stand to do those same things. Getting rid of emotional baggage that stands in the way of our relationship with Christ is a way we can shed spiritual pounds that drag us down. That cleans out of soul-closets, making room for Christ's love to flow through us. Taking time to be refreshed spiritually is important, and goes along with the mindset of this time of year. After the holidays are over, we need to take time to rest, reflect and clean our spiritual houses. Maybe the holidays left you feeling depressed or empty. Maybe family relationships weren't restored the way you thought they should be. Maybe Christmas went well, but now that it's over, you have the winter doldrums. Take heart, now is the time to dig into God's word and clean out the cobwebs in your soul!

The long days of winter are perfect for starting on this spiritual project. Make some reading goals, or make a list of friendships that need rekindled or an extra bit of work. Get your heart filled with the love of Jesus so that you can then pour that out to those around you. The first months of the year can be a down time for almost everyone, so giving a friend a call that you have neglected to do can give both of you a boost. Making connections that have fallen to the side not only helps you, but helps you spread the love of Christ. We can choose to be a shining light to those experiencing a dark winter.

God, help me to clean out my spiritual closet so that I can make more room for You in my life. Show me what baggage to get rid of so that I might be able to love people more effectively and show them the light of Your love. Amen.

Nikki Hamsher