by Doc Adkins
Devotion and prayer are the perfect places to begin any new day, and especially the first new day of a new year.
New Years Devotional
2nd Corinthians 5:17 is the inspirational Bible verse for this New Years prayer: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
This verse isn’t only talking to new believers in Christ, but also referring to long-time Christians who have been struggling with pain, inner turmoil, and sin.
Many people across the world have experienced tough days this past year. God, because of
His mercy, gives us this wonderful opportunity to focus on the future, and to put the past behind us.
Paul stresses that Christians are to “forget the past” (Philippians 3:13-14). Listen, “Dear Brothers and Sisters, I have not achieved perfection, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”
My friends, if you’ve sinned and repented, accept God’s forgiveness and move on. If you’ve had hard days, such as personal losses, i.e., losing a job, bank accounts, health, or other great losses… move on, and march ahead. Accept your lot, your circumstances, and your current place in life.
Be strong, be courageous. God gives you opportunity to call upon his strength and drop all your worries at his feet.
Know that the greatest possible possession you have is found in your living, loving relationship with Jesus Christ. He is your ultimate goal, your ultimate destination, your eternal companion.
Get to know him better and better day after day. Constantly read his love letter to you – the Bible.
Pick it up and read. Study it. Apply it. Let it mold your mind, heart, and soul.
Live it every moment. Start today – this New Years Day prayer can be your launching pad to a new life, or even a new start, in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Turn from the past years, and your past ways, onto his straight and narrow way. Jesus is there by you, waiting for you to let go of the world that is perishing, and waiting for you to give your entire heart to him.
New Years Day is an excellent time to begin a new life!
May God bless your heart as you make this prayer your own to share with the Lord.