INKSTER – 2023 was a difficult year for me personally. I’m sure some of you may relate and maybe you’ve often found yourself entangled in the thorny feelings of defeat, anger, discouragement, and continuously falling short of God’s expectations. Yet, even in spite of ourselves, God continues to forgive, bless, and most importantly, He desires an intimate relationship with each of us.
Through God's mercy and loving kindness, He continues to give us endless chances of forgiveness to become more like Him. Gods’ word is intricately brimming with stories of endless chances. As a matter of fact, the story of Simon Peter is a great testament to the relentless love of the Lord and His willingness to give us a fresh start anytime.
In John 18:15-27, Peter literally denies that he even knew Jesus and he did it three times! Despite Peter’s denial of Him, Jesus saw the potential within Peter and chose him to play a significant role in establishing his church. This serves as a reminder that no matter our past mistakes or shortcomings, Jesus offers us endless chances and opportunities of redemption and reconciliation. It’s a beautiful example of God’s unconditional love, and his ability to transform lives.
So, wherever God chooses to take you in 2024, be encouraged and remember, however we feel, fall, or fail Him, He is there to pick us up. God’s grace offers us a new year filled with exciting new adventures and experiences.
Micah 7:18 says “Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? He retaineth not his anger forever, because he delighteth in mercy.”
Trust in the Lord my brother and sister, and know the God we serve, is a God of endless chances!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
LaShonna Hitchins is the dedicated Office Administrator of Middlebelt Baptist Church in Inkster, Michigan, under the inspiring leadership of Pastor Larry E Johnson. Besides her professional commitments, LeShonna finds joy in her role as a loving mother to three incredible kids, Nyla, Malaki, and Benjamin, and as a devoted wife to Dennis.