HOPE is a word that has been thrown around a lot in the last year - but I want to ask what HOPE in 2009 would look like to you? Is it a new job? Better relationship with your in-laws? Sticking to your new year resolutions? Or world peace? For me, it's about finally allowing God to use ALL of my life - that is every area. The parts i like people to see and those that I try to hide in the darkest corners of my heart.

PERMISSION became a big word for me in the last few days. As I begun to open myself up in prayer to God about the direction He wants to take in my life in 2009, So imagine my shock when I heard Him asking me 'Yes, but will you give permission to allow My Spirit to move through you?".

Would I give GOD permission ? In all my prayers of "God use me, God break my heart for you" i have somehow shut the door to Him. Much like that little child who wants her parent to play but refuses to let go long enough of the toy she is tightly clutching, so the game can actually begin!

In these first few days of the year, my focus has been on letting go for long enough for the Spirit to flow..whether through my words, my music, my worship or my thoughts...,

What thoughts/actions/desires have you been clinging to in your life? Have you asked God to come, then held Him at bay? What excuses have stopped you from fully allowing God to work through you?

Maybe this year, if we all allow Him to move, we really will find that HOPE for our futures

Happy New Year!