But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control ~ Galatians 5:22.

As 2018 backs off the stage, 2019 is taking her place behind the curtain, waiting for her cue. Soon the draperies will part, and she’ll shyly curtsy in her full-length gown, glittering gold and silver. Her crown will dazzle in the footlights: 2-0-1-9. Confetti will dance in the air like feathers, and she’ll laugh as they tickle her nose. A line of dancing partners will meander endlessly, each eagerly awaiting a turn. The band will strike up, and she’ll twirl through the night, passing from one set of arms to the next. A perfect start for 2019.

The New Year is arriving. As we prepare for her grand entrance, what new expectations swirl in our minds and hearts for this New Year? Many people still engage in the tradition of making New Year’s Resolutions, dreaming of fresh goals or new accomplishments.

I’ve been doing some dreaming myself about something new in 2019. After much prayer, I’m excited to announce that I’ll be partnering with Heart“wings” – a women’s fellowship to lead their first Bible study called The “Front Porch” Bible Study Series. The Lord has been leading me to teach on the Fruit of the Spirit, so that will be the topic for this 52-week study. I’ll be posting a new edition every Monday morning beginning January 7th on my blog, Touched By Him, which will be linked to A Women’s Fellowship/Ministry Community Page.

Everyone is invited to participate, whether you’re a member of Heart”wings” or not. However, all Christian women have an open invitation to become a member of Heart”wings” by sending a friend request to Joyce Graves on Facebook. Here is the link to Joyce’s Timeline.

For this study, all you need is five minutes (or as long as you like), your Bible, and some java or a cuppa. Pull up a chair on the “Front Porch” and read with us. Chat and ask questions in the comments section on the community page or right here on the blog. Join in some prayer to bless your day. I’ll be visiting at different times throughout each day to comment, too.

I’m looking forward to digging deeply into the Word of God and planting seeds in the good soil of our hearts. By this time next year, we should have a bumper crop of ripe, mature fruit in our spirits! Let’s grow abundantly in His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! ~ Psalm 119:2

See you January 7th on the “Front Porch!” Blessings for the happiest of New Years,

Karen