![\"\"](\"https:\/\/fullmeasureofjoy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/DSC_0007.jpg\" "\\"DSC_0007\\"")
<\/a>As the evening went on, we talked about what a new year meant, we discussed goals, and we thought about the blessings we have in our lives and where these blessings come from (James 1:17).<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
There were arts and crafts, work sheets, a time capsule, and even party supplies. New Year\u2019s Eve at Baba\u2019s was pretty exciting! So much so, that Joy said, \u201cTime really does go fast when you\u2019re having fun!\u201d<\/p>\n
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So what does a new year mean to you? Is it a time to forget the mistakes you\u2019ve made this past year? Is it a time for you to set new goals or resolutions? Or perhaps, you look to the New Year in hopes that you\u2019ll just survive?<\/p>\n
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For many, this day brings hope, light, and newness that the old cannot offer. For others, there is nothing to look forward to. I\u2019m here to tell you that God has a great plan for each of us in the New Year. Actually, His plan works at any point during the year or throughout our lives.<\/p>\n
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We know from the book of Philippians that it was Paul\u2019s desire to forget the past. To look toward the future. We should listen to Paul\u2019s words and do exactly as he did.<\/p>\n
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\u201cBut one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.\u201d<\/em> (Philippians 3:13b-14 \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n With the grace of God, we are able to forget it all. There\u2019s no need to keep bringing it up. To keep reliving it. Forget it! And know that the prize of heaven awaits you. That\u2019s what we should be reaching for.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n And also know that God makes all things new! He can take an old creation that has rips and tears in the soul and create something beautiful. Here are a few verses to show what He is capable of doing.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe has made everything beautiful in its time.\u201d<\/em> (Ecclesiastes 3:11a \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cTo bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.\u201d <\/em>(Isaiah 61:3a \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cHe who was seated on the throne said, \u2018I am making everything new!\u2019\u201d<\/em> (Revelation 21:5 \u2013 NIV)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n God has in the past, is in the present, and will in the future make all things new. It is His desire for us to move from our old way of life and accept His new way. God\u2019s way includes life, love, acceptance, forgiveness, grace, and eternal life to name a few.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n There\u2019s a short song written by Steven Curtis Chapman titled \u201cHappy New Year.\u201d It tells the story of one person\u2019s look at the New Year. Take a look at the lyrics.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Happy New Year<\/strong><\/p>\n \n The decorations have been moved back to the attic; \n Out into the midnight sky, I stare in wonder; \n So Happy New Year, Happy New Year. So Happy New Year, Happy New Year. \nThe God who made everything <\/p>\n Are you ready to begin this New Year with God\u2019s newness surrounding you? Do you believe that God is able to make all things new? What is God whispering to you? These are questions that only you can answer. I pray that you\u2019ll hear God\u2019s whisper.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Happy New Year!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Grace and peace be yours in abundance,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Donna<\/p>\n
\nOur resolutions and our diets all in place.
\nAs another chapter ends and another one begins;
\nSlowly now we turn the page.<\/p>\n
\nAt the grand design of how our planet dances with the sun.
\nAnd I\u2019m thinkin\u2019 this could be God\u2019s way of whispering
\n\u201cA story\u2019s being told and the best is yet to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nAnother chance to catch a glimpse of what is coming true.<\/p>\n
\nThe God who made everything
\nIs remaking everything.<\/p>\n
\nHe says I\u2019m making all things new.[i]<\/a><\/p>\n