New Things in a New Year!

What NEW things might the Lord bring in our lives in the New Year? The word NEW is possible for all of us regardless of age or circumstances. What are some ways the Bible teaches us about God making us NEW? I want to share three of my favorite New Year passages.

1. One of my favorite New Year passages is found in Isaiah. Isaiah teaches us the Lord is always making things new. The words of Isaiah 43:18-19 says simply, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a NEW thing! Now it springs up; do you do not perceive it?” (NIV) Isaiah is teaching us to stop and take a good look! God is always seeking to do a new work in us. In what ways is God leading us to see the NEW in our lives as we begin 2022?
   
   
2. God not only makes us NEW, but we can be completely transformed. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the NEW creation has come: the old is gone the NEW is here!” (NIV) As the rugged cocoon cracks bringing forth the beautiful butterfly, God seeks to do a beautiful work of transformation in us. The hardships and struggles can be redeemed and transformed. What work of transformation is God seeking to do in you?
   
   
3. My third passage to reflect on at the beginning of the year is Psalm 51:10-12, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and RENEW a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” (NIV). What sins do we need to confess as we begin the new year? God is faithful to forgive if we confess our sins and seek to have a right spirit restored in us. I have found taking an hour or more and confessing my sins of commission and omission is a great way to begin the New Year. As we pray and confess, the Holy Spirit helps us see so much in our lives that need God’s forgiveness. The Good news is God does want to forgive us of all our sins.

In 2022, I pray we will all grow to be fully the person God wants us to become! What NEW work is God doing in our lives? What an exciting thought for all of us! Happy New Year!

Shalom,
Philip