“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”

Genesis 50:20 ESV

Western countries have a long history of outsourcing—often dumping their plastic and paper waste onto developing nations, overwhelming their recycling systems. Around 2018, several developing and poorer countries shut their doors to this practice. National leaders enforced stricter rules to protect the environment and public health, recognizing the dangerous consequences of burning plastic and handling toxic waste. As a result, shipping containers were left stranded in the middle of the ocean.

Yet the dumping did not stop. Some nations rejected the trash, while others—driven by economic pressure—accepted it at the cost of their land, health, and future.

As we come to the last days of 2025, along with good memories, many of us also carry unpleasant emotions. We cherish joyful moments easily, but painful memories—sin, shame, guilt, hurt, betrayal, and loss—often knock us down and make it hard to move forward.

I see these as toxic dumps the enemy tries to unload into our minds. As long as we accept the trash, the dumpster will keep coming—repeated emotional roller coasters with no concern for how we cope. The one who dumps does not care; as long as there is empty space, the trash keeps coming.

As we step into a new year, whatever resolutions you have made, let this be your top priority: stop receiving the trash. Negativity, jealousy, unforgiveness, anger, and bitterness do not only corrupt us individually; they poison families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and even the Church that Christ dearly loves.

Whether we like it or not, we are all called to run our race with endurance. With the little strength we receive from above, let us fix our eyes on Jesus—the author and finisher of our faith—and keep moving forward.

Above all, our bodies are the living temple where His presence dwells. Let us intentionally position ourselves to be filled with the forgiveness of God, the love of God, and the grace of God.

Say no to the trash. Let the helmet of salvation guard your mind, step out of the driver’s seat, and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you on the beautiful road called life—for the glory of His name.

2026 carries the fragrance of a fresh breath of life, and there is surely more in store for you. Remember this promise: what was meant to harm you in the past, God has intended for good.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we surrender every burden, every toxic thought, and every painful memory into Your hands. Cleanse our minds, guard our hearts, and fill us with Your peace. Lead us into this new season with faith, hope, and freedom, that our lives may glorify Your name. Amen.