A new year gives us a sense of a fresh start. The same way a beautiful sunrise represents the dawn of a new day.
On the journey of life, a new beginning often occurs. Those words, a new beginning is a powerful statement of change, and with change comes faith, new hope, or in other cases, fear. How we adapt to change makes all the difference. I once heard these words that forever changed me, “it’s all about perspective.”
Faith and Hope are still obtainable even when we do not know what may be on the other side, this occurs when our trust is placed in Christ alone. Romans 8:28a reminds us “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” Hebrews, chapter 11, verse 1(NIV) also tells us that “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” A New Year is like a new sunrise as mentioned earlier; it brings that fresh energy that this year will be a better one even if the past year was hard. That does not mean there will not be any challenges along the way; it simply means that regardless of the obstacles that we face, it still will be a good year. We can say that with assurance, for what changes everything is the Lord, He is the difference-maker.
Psalm 37:23-24
23 The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;
24 though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
- A new year for others may bring a sense of fear. The fear of starting over, fear of moving to a new house, fear of taking on a new career, or starting a new year without that special loved one in your life. All of these examples can lead to questions that stem from entering into the unknown. Like walking a trial and not knowing what’s around the corner. You may have questions as such are normal, and Jesus wants us all to know He is there walking alongside us on this journey into the unknown.
A New Year is a chance at a fresh start, to gain a new perspective, and to start a new chapter in our life. The key difference is the perspective that one has of the unknown. Let us reflect on Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV), “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” The question is whether we trust God enough to allow him to lead us into our New Beginning. Can we relinquish the false sense of security from being in control? I leave you with this passage,
Psalms 143:8 (NIV)
Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you, I entrust my life.
Well, my friends, a New Beginning, awaits all of us. Whatever the situation is, God is ready to lead us and gives us hope. We pray if you donot have a community you will let Leonia United Methodist Church and Pastor Emmanuel be that for you in this fresh start.