Father, we ask that as we enter this new year, you help us understand your word through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and open our hearts and minds so that we may incorporate your word and will into our lives for your glory. Please give us peace and comfort in these difficult times and help us cling to you through your word and presence of the holy spirit. We know you are still in control and will use these difficult times for your good. Forgive us if we interpret your silence as a lack of your love. We know you will answer if we only stay faithful. In Jesus’ name…

– Amen

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

“Dear friends, let us love one another, for your love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God” (1 John 4:17)

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision, or a husband’s will, but born of God” (John 1:12-13)