“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.” (Isaiah 43:18-19)
I love beginnings. I love the anticipation of a fresh start, the unknown, and the possibilities that exist, ones I may not have even thought of yet.
A lot of us will be starting New Year’s resolutions and goals today. And in setting those goals, we will look back. But we should be careful to only glance and not stare at the victories and failures of the past year. Dwelling on the past leaves us unprepared for the future.
Some of us will be planning ways to get into better shape, break a bad habit, or turn our hobby into a career. But for others, the changes that will be happening are less pleasant and positive. Maybe you will be spending this year without a loved one. Maybe the Christmas credit card charges are coming due. Or maybe the lack of change, the feeling of being stuck as you wait for prayers to be answered, has you filled with anxiety and worry, rather than anticipation.
Let the promise of these verses wash over you. “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” If your circumstances feel like a wilderness, God’s light will guide you out of it. If life feels like a wasteland, He will place a stream there for you to refresh yourself.
No matter where you find yourself today, know that God is the master of fresh starts. Make him the foundation for all your New Year’s changes through prayer and obedience. And next January, when you glance back at the past year, you will be amazed by all of your blessings.
Have a wonderful Monday and a Happy New Year!
Leave a Reply