As we stand on the dawn of a new year, we give God thanks for the year 2022! We praise God for allowing us to see the dawning of 2023. This year has been filled with many challenges. There have been calamities, tragedies, sickness, floods, and fires. Yet, through it all, the Lord has sustained us! He has been with us every step of the way. Before the clock strikes twelve, take some time to praise Him! I pray that whatever plans you have for tonight, you will celebrate the blessings of God. Take time to give God thanks! There is a tradition in many of our churches, that when the clock strikes twelve, worshippers will be on their knees. We refer to that service as Watch Night Service. All of us may not be able to attend a service tonight, but do not let this stop anyone from giving God praise! In fact, before we continue any further in this devotion, STOP. Take time now to worship Him. He deserves our praise! In Philippians 4:8, we find these words:

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.”

Paul tells us to think on things that are honorable and true. He is aware of God’s goodness and mercy. In this same chapter, he says, “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” Paul writes this scripture, calling on God’s people to praise Him. Be blessed to have a prosperous New Year! Close out this year with praise and enter the New Year with thanks. Praise is what we do and who we are. We are the people of God. Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord!