A New Year: Embracing God's Promises

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Introduction:

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, as we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is a time of reflection and anticipation. We have the privilege of starting anew, guided by our faith in the Lord and His promises. Today, let us turn to the Bible to find inspiration and guidance for the year ahead.


Scripture: Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

"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 wilderness and streams in the wasteland."


Point 1: Leaving the Past Behind

As we embark on this journey into the new year, the Bible reminds us to forget the former things. Our past may be filled with both triumphs and tribulations, but dwelling on them can hinder our progress. Let us leave behind the regrets, mistakes, and hurts of the past. God calls us to look forward with hope and faith.


Scripture: Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

"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."


Point 2: Embracing God's New Beginnings

The new year is a time of new beginnings, and in Christ, we are continually being made new. God promises to do new things in our lives. He can make a way in the wilderness of our challenges and provide streams in the wasteland of our difficulties. As we embrace His promises, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that He is with us.


Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."


Point 3: Trusting in God's Plans

In uncertain times, we can find solace in knowing that God has plans for us. His plans are filled with hope and a future. Even when we cannot see the way ahead, we can trust in His guidance and provision. As we step into the new year, let us lean on Him and acknowledge that His plans are far greater than our own.


Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

"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."


Conclusion:

Dear friends, as we stand at the threshold of a new year, let us remember the words of Isaiah, urging us to embrace the new things that God is doing in our lives. Let us leave behind the past, trusting in God's plans and guidance for the future. May this year be filled with His blessings, His grace, and His love as we journey together in faith. Amen.


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