New Year, Fresh Start

The New Year has begun—and with it comes a fresh start to improve ourselves, making the world a better place. A blank page is before each of us to write our story and grows our character.

The beginning of the new year is a time to evaluate and dream. As one year passes into the next, sometimes the same questions penetrate our minds and life doesn’t seem any different. God’s Word has solid guidance for us.

It is a worthwhile practice to time at the beginning of a new year to reflect on and recalibrate your life. I find it hard to focus on the next year while I’m finishing up the previous year, packing Christmas away and getting the house back to normal. I usually need a few days to consider goals and hopes for the new year.

Here are some thoughts with Bible verses for the first few weeks of  the new year.

God’s timing is perfect, even when we don’t understand. If you’re waiting on God for an answer to prayer, consider these verses:

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” Ecclesiastes 3:1

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.” Ecclesiastes 3:11a

We can go forward with the Lord in spite of past problems. He forgives us and gives us a new start. Through prayer, God can help us stop repeating the same mistakes.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”  Isaiah 43:18-19

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:13-14

God gives us wisdom for every day and guides our hearts, when we ask. He is trustworthy, providing stability when life changes fast.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”  Psalm 90:12

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6

Remember God loves us and gives us hope even when we feel overwhelmed.

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”  Lamentations 3: 22-23

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”  Isaiah 40:31

Do you have a verse for the new year?

As you think over these verses, I encourage you to pray and choose one that speaks to your heart. Write it on a note card, keeping it handy as a reminder of God’s Word to help you.

By keeping God’s Word in your heart and mind, the Lord will shape you into the person He desires you to become throughout the new year and beyond.

May the Lord guide you through the new year!

 

All Bible verses are from The New International Version