Signaling a new year, social media feeds are being flooded with resolutions, promises of fresh starts, and declarations of transformation. Yet, amidst this wave of optimism, there’s a silent truth many of us carry – the baggage from last year. That baggage simply doesn’t vanish as the clock strikes midnight on a new year. What are we to do about this?

Instead of feeling defeated at what happened (or didn’t happen) this year, let’s allow this past year’s baggage to be a step in our journey where God’s guidance in the coming year will continue to be unwavering (Proverbs 16:9).

The Reality of Baggage:

Baggage is often viewed negatively (and for good reason), but it’s a natural part of our journey. We live in a fallen world. Life consists of our unresolved issues, unmet goals, lingering doubts, and more of life’s trials. As we enter the New Year, it’s important to recognize that carrying baggage is not a sign of failure but, rather, a testament to God’s plan for us that is always ongoing (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Understanding and Acceptance:

The first step in dealing with our baggage is to accept it exists. Reflect on the past year – what were the highs and lows? What lessons did God teach? What experiences are still being processing? Acknowledging what we are still holding on to gives us a clearer picture of what we’re carrying into the new year, and how God wants us to handle that baggage.

God’s Help in Healing and Moving Forward:

God’s role in our lives is not to magically erase our problems but to provide us with the strength, wisdom, and courage to face them. In moments of doubt or weakness, when the baggage seems overwhelming, remember that scriptures teaches, guides, heals, and comforts us.

God’s role in our lives is not to magically erase our problems but to provide us with the strength, wisdom, and courage to face them.

Setting Realistic Expectations:

As we set goals for the new year, let’s be realistic. It’s okay to carry some of last year’s goals into this year. Progress does not always fit neatly into 365 days. Remember, God’s timing is nothing like ours (2 Peter 3:8-9). Sometimes, understanding and working through our baggage is the most significant achievement we can accomplish, and it might take more than a year to do that!

How to Use Our Baggage, for Him

Over and over again, I have seen God use His people’s personal baggage to help others. Past trials help us empathize with others that are going through the same thing. When we can share how God helped us lug around and unpack our own baggage, we are able to testify to His goodness and offer hope and counsel to those around us.

Conclusion:

The new year is indeed a time for new beginnings, but it’s also a continuation of our ongoing journey. As we carry some of last year’s baggage with us, let’s do so with grace and understanding, leaning on God for support. Remember, it’s not about having a perfect start but about moving forward with God.

Happy New Year! May this year bring you closer to God and closer to unpacking any baggage you have. You’re not alone; I will be unpacking right along with you!

Happy New Year!