Dear Readers,
As we step into a brand-new year, I want to take a moment to thank you for being part of this journey. Your presence, your thoughts, and your stories have made this space so much more than words on a screen—it’s a community, and I’m deeply grateful for each of you.
This New Year, my heartfelt wish for you is simple: may your days be filled with peace, your heart overflow with gratitude, and your steps be guided by purpose. Whatever challenges you face, may you find the strength to move forward, one small, intentional step at a time.
I hope you discover moments of joy in unexpected places, deepen your connections with the people who matter most, and feel God’s love surrounding you every step of the way. Remember, it’s not about perfection but progress—a life of meaning is built one choice at a time.
Here’s to a year of growth, hope, and unshakable faith. May 2025 be everything you need it to be and more.
Sending love and warm wishes for 2025!
The decision to stay in on New Year’s Eve came to me as I sipped my morning coffee, reflecting on Exodus 34:5-7. The world outside buzzed with celebrations, but within me, there was a quiet longing for stillness. This year, I wanted to begin differently—not with noise or haste, but with peace, gratitude, and intentionality.
The Bible reminds us, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). These words grounded me as I embraced the simplicity of staying in. Time is a gift, and how we spend it shapes not only our day but the journey ahead. My quiet choice to stay in wasn’t an act of avoidance but one of intention—to reflect, connect, and create.
Soul Insights
1. Gratitude Grounds Us
The day began with Exodus 34:5-7, a passage where God reveals His compassionate, gracious, and loving nature. As I reflected on His character, I was overwhelmed with gratitude—not just for His presence, but for everything He has provided: my relationships, my home, and the opportunities that surround me. Gratitude became the lens through which I viewed the rest of the day.
As Melody Beattie said, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.” This truth resonated deeply as I connected with loved ones and engaged in creativity. The words of Colossians 3:17 added to this reflection: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Gratitude transforms even ordinary moments into sacred acts of worship.
2. Creativity Reflects the Creator
Learning the Charleston on my keyboard was more than a fun challenge; it felt like a spiritual practice. Music, to me, mirrors God’s creativity. I’ve often imagined heaven filled with melodies, where music becomes an eternal expression of praise. Creating—even in the simplest forms—reminds me that we’re made in His image.
J.R.R. Tolkien captures this beautifully: “We make still by the law in which we’re made.” In that quiet moment at the keyboard, I felt a connection to God’s creative spirit. Playing music wasn’t just a skill; it was an act of worship, a way to honor the talents He’s entrusted to me.
3. Relationships Require Intention
One of the highlights of the day was reconnecting with loved ones—my sister in Australia, my niece in New Zealand, and my friends in Denver. Each conversation reminded me that relationships thrive not by accident but through intentional effort. I thought about my London friend and the 20+ years we’ve shared, built on countless text messages, emails, and adventures together. Our friendship didn’t survive by chance; it required care and presence.
Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Maintaining strong relationships takes work, but it’s deeply rewarding. These connections reflect God’s love, reminding us that just as we nurture relationships with others, we must also nurture our relationship with Him. Without intentionality, even the closest bonds can fade.
4. Peace is Found in Simplicity
Choosing a quiet evening wasn’t a rejection of celebration but a celebration of simplicity. Against the backdrop of a busy world, the stillness became a sacred opportunity to honor what truly matters: gratitude, meaningful relationships, and the joy of creating.
Blaise Pascal’s words came to mind: “All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” Peace doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from clearing space to hear God’s voice. In the stillness, I felt His presence, reminding me of His constant love and guidance.
5. Intentionality is the Map
As I reflected on the day, I realized that intentionality is like a map. It shows us where we are, where we want to go, and the steps we need to take to get there. Without it, we drift. Knowing my destination—whether it’s growing closer to God, strengthening relationships, or pursuing creativity—helps me take meaningful steps forward.
Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Intentionality isn’t just about making plans; it’s about surrendering those plans to God and trusting Him to guide the way. It’s a balance of purpose and faith, of knowing our role and leaving room for His work.
Final Thoughts
As we step into the New Year, I encourage you to embrace intentionality in all areas of your life. Start with gratitude—acknowledge the blessings around you. Nurture your creativity—use the gifts God has given you. Invest in relationships—whether with loved ones or with God, they require effort and care. Seek simplicity—clear space for what truly matters. And above all, trust God to guide your steps.
Isaiah 30:21 captures this beautifully: “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’”
This year, shift the focus from perfection to progress. One deliberate choice at a time—be it reflection, a meaningful connection, or a creative act—can bring you closer to God and a life of peace and purpose.
© 2025 Amelie Chambord
Soul Path Insights 
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