How many of us take the time to ready ourselves for the path ahead? We often pray for that new job, the perfect relationship, or a lasting marriage, but do we genuinely equip ourselves for the challenges of the next level? Have we made plans for how we're going to get there?

Picture this: my daily commute, panting, weighed down, discomfort heightened by sweat underneath my clothes. I know I must catch the 6 am bus to town each day, yet somehow, I consistently leave the house late and unprepared. I end up in a frantic chase after the bus, leaving me in the situation I find myself in now—drenched in sweat, uncomfortable, out of breath, and exhausted.

As we step into 2024, I encourage each of us, myself included, to prepare ourselves for the avenues we're about to explore. With proper preparation, we can avoid arriving at unfamiliar environments without the capacity to survive - we won't have to find ourselves worn out and uncomfortable. If you're praying for a job, plan and practice for that interview. If you're pursuing studies, revise and stay current with your coursework. Do what you need to do.

We all have the potential to reach our next destination, but the critical question is in what state we'll arrive.

Happy New Year! Let's get to the next level prepared and ready to thrive.