The Final Stretch
Don’t stop now
Beloved Friend,
We’ve come to the final stretch of the year, and I couldn’t let this moment pass without telling you how proud I am of you. Yes, you. The one reading this letter.
You’ve navigated a year filled with its fair share of highs and lows, growth and challenges, breakthroughs and lessons. Whether this year felt like running through open doors or trudging through valleys, one thing is certain: you’re here, and that is no small feat.
But as we enter this final lap, I want to leave you with this reminder: don’t give up now.
The end of the year can bring mixed emotions. Some feel fulfilled, like they’ve done all they set out to do. Others may feel like they’ve given it their best shot, yet the results didn’t match their expectations. You’re not alone, and neither story makes your journey less significant.
Let’s take a moment to remember Elijah. After praying for rain, he sent his servant to check for signs of it. The servant returned six times with a disappointing report: “Nothing.” But on the seventh time, he saw a small cloud, just the size of a man’s hand. That small cloud carried the promise of abundance (1 Kings 18:41–45).
Elijah didn’t stop praying after the first, second, or even sixth attempt. And when the cloud finally appeared, he didn’t rest until the rain came down. His persistence turned the smallest sign into a mighty outpouring.
Maybe this year, your efforts haven’t brought the big “rain” you hoped for yet. Perhaps you’re holding on for that small sign that God is still working. Friend, keep holding on. Your “cloud” is coming.
Scripture assures us, “You will not see wind or rain, but the valley will be filled with water” (2 Kings 3:17). What a beautiful reminder that God’s provision is not limited by what we can see. Even now, as the year ends, God is working behind the scenes to perfect everything concerning you (Psalm 138:8).
And for those who feel victorious and full of joy, keep pressing in. Victory in one season is often the preparation for greater responsibility in the next. You’ve built something remarkable this year, and God isn’t done multiplying it yet.
Let me leave you with this thought. God’s strength is not only for when we feel weak; it’s for every season. Whether you’re rejoicing or waiting, His grace sustains you. “Do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season, we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).
As you step into a new year, carry this mindset. Celebrate how far you’ve come, knowing it’s all by grace. Stay alert to the new things God is doing. He says, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). Be ready to embrace it, because some new beginnings have already started. Finally, strengthen your grip on the plow. There’s more ahead, and God’s grace is sufficient to see you through (2 Corinthians 12:9).
What has this year taught you about God’s faithfulness? What signs of His hand have you seen, no matter how small? And what victories are you carrying into the new year? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Feel free to share this with someone who might need a little strength for the finish line. Let’s go into the new year with hearts that are steadfast and full of faith.
With thoughts of kindness,
ABBA’s Shofar