The Power of a New Year
The power of a new year rests in one word: New.
Newness is something we seek. We want new life, new chances, new hopes. As we go through life, we know as Christians that key components of this life are endurance and perseverance. Yet, in the midst of difficult times—when our perseverance wears thin—we all want “new” hope, new dreams, a new life.
So how do we satisfy this desire for a “new” or “renewed” life?
We find it in a God who promises to make all things new.
As we begin this new year, it is a good time to remind ourselves of what Scripture promises in terms of “newness” and the God we serve. While I don’t like to quote Scripture out of context, I do believe that in this case there is a definitive pattern: we serve a God who takes what is broken, marred with sin, and makes these things new. (All Scripture references are from the ESV).
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert .Isaiah 43:19
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 2 Corinthians 5:17
I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the hopper, the destroyer, and the cutter, my great army, which I sent among you. You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. And my people shall never again be put to shame. Joel 2: 25-26
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And, I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And, I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain any more, for the former things have passed away.” And, He who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also, He said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true…” Revelations 21: 1-27
I particularly love this last verse and the hope it brings. I don’t know that any of us would fully long for and appreciate this “new Jerusalem” if we had not lived in this world. We need to see and experience what the world is like when man is in charge to fully embrace and long for a world in which God is in charge.
The same is true of our lives. Often, we have to make mistakes and suffer consequences of times when we don’t follow God. But, when we turn back to Him, He does make our lives new.
So, with the excitement of starting a brand-new year, let us each remember that truly we only get a fresh start when we repent of our past, turn back to God, follow His ways, and listen to His voice. That is how to get a fresh start. And, that is the best way by far to begin a new year.
Take time this season to ask yourself the following questions and to reflect on the answers that come to mind. Ask the Holy Spirit to inspire you as you reflect and pray:
1. What areas of my life do I need to repent of?
2. What parts of my life have I not surrendered to God?
3. What aspects of my life do I particularly need God to make new?
4. Do I trust God to guide me in this year ahead?
5. Will I truly seek His will—and thereby have the newness He promises?
Take time to reflect on these questions and to listen for the answers the Holy Spirit will provide. It will be the best time you spend this year. I promise!
I will end with a prayer posted on Christianity.com (December 9 2021)
“Heavenly Father, thank You for making all things new! As another new year begins, help me live each day for You. May I continually have a new song in my heart to sing to You, no matter what comes my way. I trust in You because I know that Your mercies are new every morning, and nothing ahead of me will take You by surprise. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” (Joan Walker Hahn, Encouragement Café) New Year Prayers for 2022 to Renew Our Hearts and Minds