New Beginnings: for 2025
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As we embark on the new year of 2025, we find ourselves standing at a significant crossroads marked by "New Beginnings." This moment offers us the incredible opportunity to make fresh choices and to set off on thrilling adventures. God possesses profound wisdom concerning beginnings, and this is beautifully illustrated in the Book of Revelation, where we read, "I am Alpha and Omega, THE BEGINNING and THE ENDING, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty" (Revelation 1:8, KJV). This verse serves as a powerful reminder that as we transition into this new year, we do so with courage and faith.
Life, in all its complexity, is inherently unpredictable. The Apostle James wisely cautions us, stating, "Go to now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: (i.e., make some money) WHEREAS YE KNOW NOT WHAT SHALL BE ON THE MORROW. For what is your life? It is even a VAPOUR, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (James 4:13-14, KJV). This scripture encourages us to live with purpose, reminding us that every single day is a precious gift from God, brimming with His grace and mercy.
Yet, amidst the changes and uncertainties of life, there is one unwavering truth: "JESUS CHRIST THE SAME yesterday, and today, and for ever" (Hebrews 13:8, KJV). When we have Christ in our lives, we possess a treasure that knows no bounds. Even a humble scribe who grasps the gospel is considered rich, as highlighted in Matthew: "Therefore every SCRIBE which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his TREASURE THINGS NEW AND OLD" (Matthew 13:52, KJV).
The transformative power of Christ is remarkable. As noted in 2 Corinthians, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17, KJV). We must always remember the extraordinary power that God has placed within us, holding firm to the belief that He is indeed a God of second chances.
Time is yet another invaluable gift bestowed upon us by God. In Ephesians, we are reminded, "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, REDEEMING THE TIME, because the days are evil" (Ephesians 5:15-16, KJV). This calls us to be intentional stewards of our time, perhaps even dedicating 10% of our time to God, as some choose to do.
God is always working to create new things in our lives. As Isaiah proclaims, "REMEMBER YE NOT THE FORMER THINGS, NEITHER CONSIDER THE THINGS OF OLD. Behold, I will do a NEW THING; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?" (Isaiah 43:18-19, KJV). The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment when he encourages us to "FORGETTING THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE BEHIND, AND REACHING FORTH UNTO THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE BEFORE" (Philippians 3:13, KJV).
Every moment presents us with an opportunity to make choices, as Solomon reminds us in Ecclesiastes: "TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON, AND A TIME TO EVERY PURPOSE UNDER THE HEAVEN" (Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV). We indeed have the time to pursue whatever we desire, prompting us to reflect on what we will choose to do with it. "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, REDEEMING THE TIME" (Colossians 4:5, KJV).
Moses wisely stated, "So TEACH US TO NUMBER OUR DAYS, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom" (Psalm 90:12, KJV). If we truly understood how many days we had left, our outlook on time would significantly change. Peter further advises us, "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, THAT ONE DAY IS WITH THE LORD AS A THOUSAND YEARS" (2 Peter 3:8, KJV). God's understanding of time is vastly different from ours, operating outside the constraints we often impose.
As we ponder our daily lives, we should consider how we allocate our time. Are we investing it in activities that enrich our lives, or are we squandering it on trivial pursuits? Engaging in fruitful activities such as studying the Bible, exercising, exploring hobbies, volunteering, and nurturing relationships with family and friends can greatly enhance our lives.
Transformation is akin to beginning a new job; it opens doors to exciting possibilities and provides fresh perspectives. Ephesians instructs us to "PUT OFF CONCERNING THE FORMER CONVERSATION THE OLD MAN" and "PUT ON THE NEW MAN" (Ephesians 4:22-24, KJV). This process of change can be likened to shedding an old, worn-out suit and donning a new, stylish outfit that empowers us to face the world with confidence.
God assures us in Hebrews, "For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and THEIR SINS AND THEIR INIQUITIES WILL I REMEMBER NO MORE" (Hebrews 8:12, KJV). Our journey towards becoming our new selves is not merely about altering our behaviours; it is about growing to resemble Jesus more each day, reflecting His love, grace, and truth to everyone we meet.
As we transition into the year 2025, let us make a steadfast commitment to deepen our faith. We should actively seek opportunities to encourage one another, as highlighted in Hebrews: "And let us consider one another TO PROVOKE UNTO LOVE AND TO GOOD WORKS" (Hebrews 10:24, KJV).
Our life journey resembles that of pilgrims and strangers in a foreign land. "FOR OUR CONVERSATION IS IN HEAVEN" (Philippians 3:20, KJV). This world is not our ultimate home; our true citizenship is in Heaven. Following Christ may sometimes feel isolating, but we are called to share His message, especially as many around us are burdened and yearning for hope.
"CAST THY BURDEN UPON THE LORD, and he shall sustain thee" (Psalm 55:22, KJV). God invites us to release our burdens and allows His love and grace to replace them with something beautiful, granting us peace, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose. His love for us is immeasurable, as expressed in John: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have Everlasting Life" (John 3:16, KJV).
As we embrace the new year ahead, let us cherish our lives in Christ deeply. We are not merely new creations; we are transformed individuals eager to live with intention and enthusiasm. May the year 2025 be filled with opportunities for growth, transformation, and countless chances to share the profound love of Jesus with those around us. Amen!