“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

New Beginnings

Walk His Way Revisited

There was a unit at the hospital I worked at years ago called New Beginnings. It was a drug and alcohol rehabilitation unit. I always liked that name. Someone very dear to me has just celebrated the third anniversary of his “new beginning” where God met him in a very powerful way at a similar place, and through His grace and by Christ’s strength, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13), he was set free from alcohol’s devastating grip. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1 NIV).

As he began to see and love himself as Christ saw him, he was then able to receive love from others. Rather than pour his life down the drain, he was able to pour himself out to those around him in a positive way. “For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives” (Romans 6:4 NLT).

I don’t know what new beginning God has for you in the coming year. It may be as simple as starting to walk the River Trail once a week or a decision not to gossip. Perhaps it will be as drastic as a move across the country, or even your turn to be set free from an addiction. A new baby, a new home, a new job, a new ministry? God knows–why don’t you ask Him?

Dear Lord, thank You for new beginnings. As each of us press into You this coming year, may we find the one(s) You have for us. May we then surrender them back to You and look to You for the grace, mercy and strength to succeed. Amen.