All Things New

The beginning of each year gives me new hope and energy. How about you? Have you made resolutions or did you choose not to because of the self-condemnation that comes when you fail? I have been there and I have good news!

Realize that discouragement, disappointment and despair come from our enemy. He roams the earth, going back and forth, looking for someone to destroy. Don't let that person be you. When you feel discouraged and depressed, know that those feelings do not come from God but from your enemy. Our God is a faithful Friend and He gave each of us power to overcome. Speak boldly to the devil in the name of Jesus. Tell him where he can go. I have done this and felt God's peace that passes understanding. Praise God!

Instead of beating up on yourself, set your thoughts on things above. Check this out from Isaiah 65:17:

Behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.

Wow! That means that we won't remember the times we missed a goal or deadline. When this happens, we have freedom to go to God and ask Him to help us. And you know what? He will. He loves and cares for us and wants the best for us.

I challenge you to set goals for 2013, and when despair comes, use God's antidote--His word. Jesus did in the wilderness when He was tempted by Satan. We can too. Here are a couple encouraging verses:

Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you. . .Zechariah 9:9

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. Ephesians 1:3 

While we look to a New Year of possibilities, let us also look to our hope of heaven and be renewed in our faith.

Father God, thank you that you are a God of new beginnings and that nothing is impossible for you. We put our hope and trust in you to carry us through this year and until Your Son returns to take us to the new heavens and new earth. Amen.