The new year, for many people, is a time to examine themselves and their goals. goals. But no matter what you look ahead to it is a great time to get into God’s Word. There are reading plans, or you can just pick up the Bible and just read it but no matter what approach, the Bible is full of verses and promises that can be really set the tone for the New Year.
Philippians 4:4-7 - Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
What a wonderful reminder that Christians should always go to God praising Him and can always go to Him with needs and requests. Especially after the rush of the holidays, resetting our minds to thank God and go to Him in thankfulness for another year is a great reminder, and seeking peace of God is a great New Year’s resolution.
Priorities can get thrown off by things that, in the grand scheme of eternity, are not very important. Be in God’s presence continually, at work, with family, alone, and during personal highs and lows. A New Year means new chances to seek God’s presence.
We can look at the New Year as a clean slate. New beginnings where we have a chance to start over or renew things. Getting into the Word can really guide us in the renewal process. There are things that we all need to work on and that we all think about as we evaluate what the New Year will bring. Regardless of what it is I recommend starting with the Bible and allow God’s Word to renew you from the inside out.
2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 - Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
We are weak and we need God’s strength to hold us up and lead us. When we feel like we have failed it is God who will lift us up and assure us that if we let Him guide us then we are able to stand firm and strong and therefore we are strengthened through Him. No matter what may come, use everything and anything, including the hardships, to draw closer to and glorify the Lord Jesus. When we are little, God’s greatness shines brighter, and He cares for His own.