I am always reflective when I turn my calendar to a new year. There are the obvious questions: What goals did I meet from the previous year? What were the victories? What were the failures?

The stuffed closet finally was uncluttered and organized. My goal to entertain more guests in our home was met. Lastly, my recreational book readings increased. However, I fell short at increasing my exercise schedule by several minutes. A bummer!

Well, a new year is here, and I am instituting a “3-P System:” Pray. Plan. Peace.

Prayer will now top my to-do list. The Bible says, “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord” (Proverbs 16:1). Since my desire is to be a better listener to God’s assignments in my life, having an effective prayer life will be essential.

My second goal is to plan to have more “white spaces” on my to-do list that will limit stress and pressures from life. Honestly, I tend to gripe and complain more when things are unfinished. It’s not fair to my husband, family, and friends when I overwhelm my life.

Lastly, peace. As the matriarch of our growing family, I should champion a life of peace and contentment. Philippians 4:9 says, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” Being a follower of Jesus Christ challenges me to live in His peace.

Prayer. Plan. Peace. These are workable!