Want a new start? It’s yours for the asking.
It’s only natural that most people think of new starts with the beginning of the calendar year. However, with a child still in school, I tend to think in terms of the academic year. While I have a traditional calendar on my fridge, my personal planner is from July to June as it helps me keep track of the everything in our school year. So, I guess I think of new starts twice a year, instead of once.
As I contemplated what I wanted to share on this blog post, many thoughts ran through my mind. New starts can mean so many different things to different people. But the one thing that echoed in my heart the loudest was that as a believer, Jesus gives us a brand new start every day. At any given moment.
We may not always keep those new year resolutions or that goal that we set for ourselves, but it doesn’t necessarily mean we’ve failed. Failing is not trying.
Do we mess up? Sure. At least I do. More than not, probably. But Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” I don’t know about you, but that sure says a new start to me.
Setting goals and resolutions is a good thing. Just don’t beat yourself up if it doesn’t all work out according to how you planned it. God may have something else in mind. According to His will and not our own, right?
I can’t remember where I heard this many years ago, but it had such an impact on me that I wrote it in the back of my Bible. I’d like to share it with you.
“Prayer is not a way of getting what we want, but the way to become what God wants us to be.”
Don’t stop dreaming or setting those goals and resolutions. Just remember to be still and listen to God’s still small voice. He might be steering you in a different direction. God is the best GPS you’ll ever have. You’ll always have a strong signal and excellent coverage. Guaranteed!
May your new year and new start be blessed!
Susan Hollaway
May you have a blessed new year, too, Susie. I really appreciate this post – some things I really needed to hear.
I’m glad, Susie. I’m awfully glad God whispered it on my heart for me to hear too. =)
I’ve always been so encouraged to know that my Lord’s mercy and compassion is NEW every morning. In a world where ‘new’ is old before people even understand what it is, it is great to know that ‘new’ in the Lord’s economy is just that….new! Thanks, Susie, for reminding us that we are not a failure and that ‘new’ can be today!!
Well said, Julane. There’s a hymn about new mercies I see. I figure you’ll know it, being the hymn-meister and all. =)
I like youe little “Prayer is not a way of getting what we want, but the way to become what God wants us to be.” I think that will go into my Bible too!
I loved that saying. Wish I could remember where I heard it. But it’s in the back of my Bible, Jeanie, along with several other little tidbits of wisdom that I find particularly insightful or inspiring.
Thanks for the encouragement on this new day
Great message Susan.
Cherie and Ian, thanks for the kind words. Actually, it’s a God-thing. He truly does take you in other directions that what you plan sometimes, even in blog posts. =)