Did you know the Bible has a verse for the New Year?
“Forget what happened in the past, and do not dwell on events from long ago. I am going to do something new” (Isaiah 43: 18-19, GW).
Okay, the verse isn’t specifically for New Year’s, but it does apply. Don’t dwell on things that happened last year; forget about 2017 and focus on 2018. What better time than the beginning of a new year to put the past behind you and allow God to do something new in your life?
If you messed up last year, God says that you do not have to carry that with you. He offers forgiveness if you’re willing to admit your mistakes: “I will not remember your sins anymore” (Isaiah 43:25, GW).
If other people or circumstances messed up your life last year, God tells you that He cares: “I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through the sea, I am with you. When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away” (Isaiah 43:1-2, GW).
So, putting the past behind you, accepting God’s forgiveness, focusing on what is ahead, and allowing Him to be glorified by giving you a new life–sounds like the recipe for a good year.
Come to think of it, this sounds like a formula for every day of every year, doesn’t it?
Note: This was first posted in 2016 but since 2017 was a difficult year for so many people, whether due to shootings, hurricanes, fires, health concerns, or relationships, I thought it worth re-posting.
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