The Shining

In my devotion today, I read the passage in Luke 8:26-39 The restoration of a demon possessed man. The devotion spoke of how the presence of evil in the world can be so overpowering to us and to those who see its effects. Not only was the man overpowered but those watching were overpowered as well and possessed by paralyzing fear… but only until Jesus stepped in with His power to overpower the overpowering bringing restoration.

We all have issues as we are confronted with the effects of doing things our own way rather than God’s way. The effects of trauma and fear in our lives have deep roots. The choice is given however. Will we focus on those effects or will we choose to focus on Jesus Who will step in with His power to overpower the effects AND our fear…? Restoration is found only in Him, our Living Hope.

My word for the year in 2025 was Anticipate: to borrow the joy that will come when Jesus restores  applying it, with hope, today.

As it stands, it is 2026 today but the principle prevails. When I am faced with difficult issues and people, as I have recently been, where will my focus be? Fear? Or my Living Hope of Restoration, Jesus.

My word for 2026? Shine.
Anticipation applied equals shining with the light of His power to restore.

“In His light, we see light.”Psalms 36:9
In His light, we are invited to be light.

Here’s to a shiny New Year,
Anne
January 1, 2026