"Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 ESV

In the beginning of the year, I make it a habit to ask the Lord, "What do you need me to know before my next 365 begins?" I typically share what I hear with a few close friends and as the year ensues, we share sermons with each other of pastors whom God gave similar words to. We get excited because if God is speaking about a particular subject to many of his children, He is trying to get our attention. Last year my study was mainly around the book of Ezekiel. I understood why 2024 would be the year of uncovering. I knew we would see evil revealed in hidden places and the uncovering of these things would happen on a large scale. There were things revealed in many of our personal lives as well. When God cleans house, He is preparing to take us (his children) higher.

This year, when I prayed exhausted from the highs and lows, I had experienced in 2024, worn out from all the madness uncovered over the year in the news and even the things that were revealed in my own life that I had to deal with, I kept hearing God tell me 2025 is my year of manifestation. Again, I saw different preachers speaking a similar message and I became thrilled because although we may see crazy stories and world events in the news, as believers we will also see God do some amazing things in our personal lives despite what may be happening around us. God revealed to me that this year, I will pray and see the answers to those prayer requests happen quickly. Old prayers, ones I forgot about I would see the fruit of those requests this year. One of the requirements to see this happen for me was in Isaiah 43:18-19, I must forget the former things, and two, I can't afford to be distracted and must remain focused on my manifestation.

You see when God asks us to forget the former things is so that we can accept what was, heal, close the chapter and move on. We must believe that in letting go of the former things we allow God to work everything for our Good. Our tough seasons can be used as launching pads for our ascension. Yet, if we stay in victim mode, angry about the past, or stuck in unforgiveness of others or even ourselves it's like God telling us to run forward but we are running with 100lb rocks on our back. You won't get far with that much weight dragging you down. Whatever it is that's your "former thing" whether it is a mindset from your past, a person to forgive, a job to let go of, or a bad habit you need to break, go ahead and release it! If it is your year of manifestation don't let anything hold you back from moving forward into the realization of your hopes and dreams in 2025.

When God informed me to secondly not to become distracted, I had to first remember the enemy doesn't have power over us believers. He can't steal our destiny or stop God's plan from happening in our lives. What he can do is become a master of distraction. You may be tempted to get distracted in the coming year by the scary news stories, a person sent to throw you off track like a negative boss or difficult spouse. You may even be distracted by your shortcomings. In the year of manifestation, we've got to focus on God's promises and remain vigilant against distraction. This year you won't lose focus on the blessings and favor God has in store for you. You will handle the relationships he sends you well. You will steward your financial increase; you will stay in your word and faith unmoved by what you see in the news. This year you will see the actualization of dreams and visions God has given you and you won't miss it!

I Pray Psalm 20 over you :

1 May the Lord answer you when you are in distress;
    may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.
2 May he send you help from the sanctuary
    and grant you support from Zion.
3 May he remember all your sacrifices
    and accept your burnt offerings.[b]
4 May he give you the desire of your heart
    and make all your plans succeed.
5 May we shout for joy over your victory
    and lift up our banners in the name of our God.

May the Lord grant all your requests.

6 Now this I know:
    The Lord gives victory to his anointed.
He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary
    with the victorious power of his right hand.
7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.
8 They are brought to their knees and fall,
    but we rise up and stand firm.
9 Lord, give victory to the king!
    Answer us when we call!

-Gab