DEVOTION / A "blessed" New Year!
Did you stay up to watch "the ball" drop in New York? Or the fireworks in Paris? Or the local festivities in your own hometown? For me, the question has changed to, "Did you manage to stay up to midnight?"
People around the world celebrate the New Year in many ways. Some look to the new year with hope and optimism; others look ahead with fear.
What is the world coming to?
The Bible answers that! For believers, it's good news! Despite scary headlines and anxiety-inspiring news, God's Word makes it clear that our loving Lord has everything firmly in control. He has his eyes on his people at all times.
Passages to ponder for the New Year
If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone; the new is here (2 Corinthians 5:17).
I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new.” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true” (Revelation 21:5).
Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24).
Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint (Isaiah 40:31).
The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord (Lamentations 3:25-26).
What's next?
Believers can be confident in the promises of our God. Many in this dark world are seeking hope and peace. We can share that joy with the people God has brought into our lives. We can also reach others around the world through ministries like 316NOW.
The Chinese New Year
People across China celebrated the transition from 2023 to 2024 with us. But the celebration they are especially looking forward to is still coming.
Chinese New Year is not until February 10. Millions of Chinese will celebrate the Year of the Dragon. They will try to sweep the evil or bad luck out of their homes. Gifts will be given. Lanterns will be lit. Traditions followed.
Their hope is this will welcome a prosperous 2024. Pray that the Lord would have millions welcoming a new Savior — Jesus. He alone can save sinners from the darkness of trying to rid themselves of sin and evil.
Here's wishing you and souls around the world a blessed New Year. The blessed kind that only comes from knowing the Lord Jesus, the one true Savior of the world!