“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)

Here we go. Two thousand eighteen!

With a few days under our belts already, you can still sense the excitement and anticipation for what will unfold in the coming months.

After all, with the New Year comes fresh hope and a much welcomed chance to start all over.

Everything and everyone around us pumps up our hearts with positivity, so much so that we’re just oozing with confidence that this year will finally be OUR year:

Our year to meet and marry our prince charming.

Our year to start a family.

Our year to see our business boom.

Our year when all our dreams become our picture perfect reality.

Yes, the New Year always starts off promising for us all. But as the days and weeks collect on our calendars, and the winding rhythm of life settles in, we can find ourselves feeling disappointed or discouraged.

Our plans won’t go as smoothly as we imagine. And challenges will come up unexpectedly.

But no matter what 2018 brings, we can find comfort in knowing our Heavenly Father is in control.

As His Word reminds us in Proverbs 19:21, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.”

And because we know God will always do what’s best for us, we can trust His purpose, even when things don’t go according to our plans.

So this year, let’s anchor our souls in His truth. Especially when we’re tempted to feel down or complain about it being a bad year.

Life won’t always sparkle like our expectations at midnight on New Years Eve.

Yet even in the dark moments, we can be sure, God’s good purpose for our lives will ultimately shine through.

More Scriptures to Help Combat Disappointment Throughout the Year

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.”  Isaiah 55:8

“O LORD, what great works you do! And how deep are your thoughts.” Psalm 92:5

“Ah, Sovereign LORD, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” Jeremiah 32:17 (NIV)

“…Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” Psalm 30:5

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 (KJV)

“We can make our own plans, but the LORD gives the right answer. We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.” Proverbs 16:1 & 9

“Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!” Psalm 27:14 (ESV)

“No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame…” Psalm 25:3 (NIV)