Happy New Year! 2016 is here! Have you taken the time to make your New Year’s resolution? Have you set any goals? Perhaps you desire a stronger marriage. Maybe you’re hoping for a better job or praying for the salvation of family members. Perhaps, you’re in a relationship and ready to commit to marriage. Whatever is on your mind as we look toward a new year, begin with thankfulness and prayer.As I reflect on 2015, I’m thankful for God’s blessings. There have been struggles this year, but God has blessed the Roat family. Leon and I recently celebrated 25 years of marriage. Without God’s help and the counsel of friends, our marriage wouldn’t be so strong. I’m also eternally grateful that God has given us three loving children that are committed to Jesus. At times, I know life can bring challenges, but God calls us to keep our minds focused on the Lord’s blessings and goodness. One verse that has helped me to stay focused on God’s best for me is Thessalonians 5:16-18. “Rejoice always,pray without ceasing,give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Another aspect of having the right attitude is prayer. Many times, people don’t feel like praying because of discouragement. I’ve heard many couples say it’s hard to find something positive that they can be thankful for. I personally think that this is not true. There is always something someone can be thankful for. I would like to encourage you to bring in the new year with a thankful heart and prayer. Each day, thank Jesus for his love. Let friends and family know that you treasure them. If you’re in the process of waiting for that special person, say a prayer for them. I believe that God will answer your prayers and make your relationships and marriage thrive. God has done it for me, why wouldn’t he do it for you? Every prayer prayed in his will is going to be done. This is his promise. Jesus taught us to pray to our Father for his will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. His will is for you to have a blessed and happy marriage. Happy New Year! May God grant you the desires of your heart, and may your marriage grow stronger this coming year!