Start Fresh

Thank God for the blessing of a New Year.  Many people anticipate the New Year because it provides an opportunity to put the past behind them and start fresh.  Some people hope that the blessings and good fortune of 2015 follow them into 2016.  Others hope that the 2016 is nothing like their 2015.  As New Year gets started, I want to suggest three things that we can do all year as we seek to have a remarkable 2016.

1. Pray.  Prayer is so simple, yet so powerful.  It is readily available, yet often neglected.  Scripture teaches us that communication with God is essential to overcoming life’s obstacles, conquering sin, healing from hurts, staying focused.  Through prayer, we gain strength for our journey of becoming better Christians, parents, children, singles, spouses, and citizens.  Never stop praying and don’t forget to thank God when you pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). 
2. Expect the Unexpected.  Sometimes you can wear shorts on Christmas Day, and sometimes there is an ice storm in April.  Just like Texas weather, life is unpredictable.  Many people have a difficult time coping when the way that things are in their lives aren’t the way the thought they would be.  We cannot control what other

people do.  We can, however, control how we react and respond to what they do.  We cannot accurately predict sickness or death.  However, we determine whether we will trust God or turn away from Him.  Expect to be presented with opportunities to prosper in 2016.  But don’t be surprised with your faith is tested and you are encouraged to curse God and die. (see Philippians 4:11-13)

1. Live out of Love.  We reap what we sow.  If we live out of love, love will be given back to us.  The blessings of God are with those who love Him with all of their heart, mind, soul, and strength.  God is with those who love others as they love themselves.  Don’t close your heart to others.  Whatever you do, show God’s love (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).