New Beginnings
The Old is Gone, the New Has Come
New year; new beginnings. That’s how I always approach January 1st. Whether the outgoing year has been good or hard, there’s always hope wrapped up in a new beginning.
How do we know this? His mercies are new every morning—Lamentations 3. A new year is also a new day. To begin anew. To put your trust in the Father and lean into His grace. No matter what the day before—or year before—held, there is mercy today. It’s a gift He extends.
2023 is in the past and God is wanting to do something new in your life! Don’t look back unless it is to praise; set your eyes forward.
“But forget all that— it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.”
How to Start a New Year
There are 3 things I like to do at the turn of a new year. To dream, plan, prioritize, and set focus. It gives me something to aim for. And I would highly encourage you to do the same!
Reflect on 2023 with thanksgiving. Journal or list all the things you have to be thankful for. I know this was a hard year but don’t miss praising God for His faithfulness! You’ll be reminded of His provision and find little blessings, even if it was a hard year. Hope is stirred.
Pick a theme word and verse for the new year. Spend some time in prayer and ask God to give you a word for the year. A word that will shape your heart for the next twelve months. Perhaps an area to grow in or sin to work through. For me, this year is “crucified” as I’m seeking to leave behind what so easily entangles. And my verse is Galatians 5:24.
Make a list of intentions and prayers. I then sit down and write out prayers I have for the year and the intentions I’d like to aim toward. You’ll always miss if you don’t aim for something. So, write out prayer requests for the year and things you’d like to work towards in pursuing passion and purpose.
I hope this helps give you some inspiration and direction. And I pray 2023 is an incredible year for you!
Don’t forget, it’s not too late to join the Wondered By The Word online community committed to reading the Bible in a year. Click here for more info.