The Tribune

By Carlos Spencer

A WONDERFUL way to look at a new year is the concept of a new dawn; a new chapter, a new season, new possibilities. This can be so exciting and refreshing, particularly if one has faced challenges of one complexion or another during the previous year. Holy scripture provides us with much inspiration and direction and Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV) is a useful passage for consideration: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” God’s word enables us to approach and embrace the new year with gusto, alacrity and hope for the future.

Hope and focus are necessary for us to remain steadfast in our endeavours, and not betray our desired goals, nor the will of God for our lives. Isaiah 43:19 (KJV) expresses this point rather aptly: “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert”. The presence of despair, despondency, and waywardness are counterproductive to our goals and aspirations and this normally results in a dysfunctional state of affairs. With our hearts and minds clearly geared to God’s word, we are likely to remain on course as a steady ship, notwithstanding the uncertainties and difficulties of the new year. God directs our paths and keeps us firm as an anchor. We are poised for the challenges of the new year, and God’s grace provides us with quiet comfort. Psalm 121:1-2 says “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from when cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and Earth.”

It is difficult to embrace a new chapter in our lives if we continue to hold on to the challenges and unpleasant experiences of the past. The reality is...we are human beings and we tend to hold on to the good memories, and often the not so good memories as well. A new year is a new dawn and a moment to make a complete break from our past. It is a convenient inflection point. Revelation 21:4 (KJV) records “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” Our Heavenly Father will strengthen and keep us as we look to Him for guidance, wisdom and discernment as we face the new year. Jesus reminds us in Matthew 19:26 and Mark 10:27 that whilst some things are impossible with man, all things are possible with God.

A new dawn…. a new day and in this context 2 Corinthians 5:17 is inspirational. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Amen. Thanks be to God for the sharing of His Word.