“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:18-19
Fresh Beginnings
As we enter a new year, we embrace the beauty of fresh beginnings. The excitement and promise of a new start fill our hearts with hope. This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our past and envision the possibilities that lie ahead. The Bible teaches us that every day brings new mercies, and a new year magnifies that blessing.
Isaiah 43:18-19
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” – Isaiah 43:18-19
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Revelation 21:5
“He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” – Revelation 21:5
Philippians 3:13-14
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13-14
Reflecting on the Past
Taking the time to reflect helps us grow and learn from our experiences. We acknowledge the challenges and triumphs we faced in the past year. Recognizing where we have come from can empower us to make changes and set goals for our future. The Bible encourages us to learn from our past while keeping our eyes focused on the new year and the freshness it brings.
Philippians 4:8
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8
Proverbs 4:25-27
“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.” – Proverbs 4:25-27
Romans 15:4
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” – Romans 15:4
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Isaiah 43:1
“But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” – Isaiah 43:1
Renewing Our Spirit
As we turn the page to a new year, it’s an excellent time to renew our spirit. We can revitalize our relationship with God and deepen our faith. Setting spiritual goals can guide our steps in the right direction, helping us to grow closer to Him. We can use this opportunity to commit to spiritual practices that nourish our spirit, enabling us to face the new year with renewed vigor.
Ephesians 4:22-24
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:22-24
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” – Psalm 51:10
1 Peter 1:3
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” – 1 Peter 1:3
Setting Goals and Intentions
As we enter the new year, setting goals and intentions helps us align our lives with God’s purpose. By writing down our aspirations, we make a commitment to ourselves and to Him. These intentions might be spiritual, emotional, or practical. With God’s guidance and support, we can find the strength to pursue these goals wholeheartedly.
Jeremiah 29:11
“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.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Matthew 7:7
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Embracing Change
The new year brings about change, and embracing it can lead us to incredible opportunities. Change can be scary, but with God by our side, we can trust His plan for our lives. Accepting change helps us grow in faith and character and can often lead to beautiful transformations in our journey.
Ecclesiastes 3:1
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1
Trusting in God’s Plan
As we move forward into a new year, trusting in God’s plan is vital. We might not know what the future holds, but we can be confident that God is in control. His plans for us are ultimately good, guiding us through every challenge and joy we face. We can rest in the assurance that God walks with us every step of the way.
Psalm 37:5
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this.” – Psalm 37:5
Proverbs 19:21
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” – Proverbs 19:21
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34
Isaiah 58:11
“The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” – Isaiah 58:11
Romans 8:28
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Final Thoughts
As we enter this new year, we are reminded of the importance of fresh beginnings, reflection, and trusting God’s plan. Through embracing change and setting intentions, we can move forward with renewed hope and creativity. Let us lean on the powerful verses from the Bible that encourage us to embark on this journey together, growing in faith and character. Let this new year be filled with purpose, love, and the guidance of our Lord.
There’s so much more to explore in our walk with faith. I encourage you to check out other topics that will uplift and inspire you, such as the importance of a fresh start, or learning about forgetting the past and moving forward.