The greatest thing about beginning a new year is the opportunity to prepare for a better one. There’s freedom in newness, a renewed hope in life no matter what the circumstances. Jesus was slain for the sins of the world to redeem us back to the Father, and as we’ve excepted His sacrifice and acknowledge Him as King, we also receive His promise. “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” 2 Corinthians 5:17. As the world makes resolutions they won’t keep and after the buzz of the new year has worn off, we believers have a promise we can live out every day! Here are 3 ways to continue to celebrate the newness in this year.
1. Know your own reflection
NEW YEAR! NEW YOU! We’ve seen this slogan on social media, it has been scribbled on sticky notes and placed on mirrors but, it’s important to know what old life is actually gone. For some it may be addictions, horrible habits, or negative relationships that we decide in our hearts no longer has a place in our new life. For others, it may be hurdles that challenge their character or persistent distractions that keep them from consistently connecting to God. Now that we are new by the blood of the Lamb, it’s crucial that we remember who we use to be, to be reminded of the daily change taking place in our lives.
2. Let go of the guilt
We only look back to see how far we’ve come! We give God praise for the complete work He’s done in our lives and the strength He gives us to stay the course. “Therefore, having been justified by faith we have peace with God through Christ Jesus.” Romans 5:1 Feeling guilty about the things we’ve done in our past is a waste of time. It contradicts the faith we have that declares we are the righteousness of God, sons and daughters of the Most High, redeemed back to Him! It takes faith to believe we are new creatures in Christ, just the thought of it is daily encouragement.
3. Let go of your own strength
If humanity was strong enough on its own, we wouldn’t have needed a savior. “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 We can celebrate all year round knowing we don’t have to depend on our intellect or strength to walk worthy of the calling of our lives. Our newness in Christ was already made complete on Calvary. We could never earn it, the pressure to save ourselves is off, Jesus paid it all! That’s worth celebrating for eternity!
Comments