I think about all of the promises in God’s Word

"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? (Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV)

As we stand before the new year, we don’t know what’s in store for us. But there’s one thing we do know, and that is that we can leave the past behind with all of its cares, pains, heartaches, and mistakes. We can’t undo one single act and we can’t unsay one single word, but if we will give our grief and regrets to God, He can make this new year a thing of joy and beauty.

When I think about the year that is set before us, I think about all of the promises in God’s Word and about the wonderful things that can happen because those promises are unfailing, unchanging, and meant for each of us personally. With all of those promises, why would anyone want to go back and retrace the past, to walk the road to yesterday?

God’s Word says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” Rather than going back into the past and regretting this and that and weeping over things that we can’t change, we should remember God’s comforting promise: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”

May you have a wonderful new year, and may God bless you every step of the way! —Virginia Brandt Berg [1]

Prayer: Dear Jesus, before starting out on this new year, I’d like to pause for a moment with You. Your Word promises that “those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.” Please give me strength for whatever the coming year holds. King David prayed, “Renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Please come into my heart and life, and guide me in the days ahead.

[1] Anchor A New Year’s Challenge