Happy New Year! This time of the year reminds us that things can become new again. Perhaps 2016 was not the year you wanted it to be. There is hope in new beginnings. God set up a system of new beginnings. We have winter, spring, summer and fall, each bringing a new beginning and a new beauty. We have 12 months a year, each with a new beginning. We have a 7-day week, each day with a new beginning. Each day begins with new and tender mercies, the Bible tells us.

Basically we have a past, present and future. We cannot live in the past nor in the future, we live in the present. Paul reminded us to forget the former things. Forget the things of the past that have brought you down. Forgive people who have hurt and let you down. Start fresh today! Let this begin your new life!

Wait you say, I have done to0 many things in the past. I have sinned greatly. How can I start fresh? If you are a child of God, then all things have become new and you are a new creation. If you are not a child of God, why not choose to be one? Do you want to continue living the life of sin that has left you broke, disgusted and down, or do you want to lead a life of greatness following the Way of Jesus? The choice between Heaven and Hell between life and death, between victory and defeat seems easy. Choose life.

Pray to the Father. Let Him know you believe that His only begotten Son, Jesus, came to give His life on the cross. When Jesus paid the ultimate price by freely giving His life, He reconciled God with man allowing us to accept His gift and become a son or daughter of God. Jesus is now seated on the right hand of the Father in Heaven making intercession for us.

Start this “new year” off right by accepting the gift of salvation. If you are already saved, then start living like you are saved! God has not forgotten you! Your Father is ever looking over you, protecting you in ways you do not realize. Remember you have an enemy, yourself at times, and at other times, Satan. Satan is a roaring lion seeking to find you and devour you. Do not let him get a foothold in your life! Seek Jesus and Jesus will protect you. The Bible says that our Father has made a way out of every temptation. So start afresh by putting down things in your life that are not pleasing to God. Ask the Father for the strength to flee from sin, and those vices that so easily beset us.

This year, 2017, is a brand new canvas! Whatever you want to paint is in your control. Paint a new you: one that is joyful, loving, peaceful, kind, patient, and giving. Keep your focus on Jesus, who is the author and finisher of your salvation. Eye has not seen, nor has ear heard, all the great things your Father has in store for you in 2017. I believe this year will be the year of open heavens, God pouring out blessings we cannot contain, and open doors that man cannot open nor shut.

When you are blessed, remember to be a blessing to others! God bless you and make His face to shine upon you!