Instead of giving you the same old “Happy New Year” pep talk and talk about how you should throw out your sugar now and start planning a new years detox diet (although it is a good idea and you should), I thought I’d share what I think has been far more beneficial than any food diet advice and still a great reminder. It’s all easier said than done but in my experience, God makes following Him and excellent adventure. Here are some quick Biblical reminders on what to consider for this coming year…
1. Don’t take Grace for granted.
– Romans 6:1-2: “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?”
– The new year is an opportunity to leave behind old bad habits and live a life that reflects Jesus. Sometimes it’s easy to think you are getting away with things because of God’s mercy but what goes around always comes around, so make sure it’s good.
2. Do Not Be Proud or Arrogant
– Proverbs 16:18: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
– Pride can lead to isolation and thinking thoughts that eventually. Instead, embrace humility and recognize that all blessings and good things come from God.
3. Do Not Worry or Be Anxious
Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
– Worrying about the future distracts from trusting in God’s provision. Focus on seeking His kingdom and trusting His plan.
4. Do Not Be Lazy or Idle
– Proverbs 13:4: “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.”
– The Bible encourages hard work and diligence. Don’t be complacent, but strive to use your gifts and talents for God’s glory.
5. Do Not Seek Revenge or Hold Grudges
Romans 12:19: “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'”
– In the new year, forgive others as Christ has forgiven you, and release any bitterness or desire for revenge.
6. Do Not Love Money or Material Possessions
– 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
– Materialism can distract from true contentment and joy in Christ. Avoid prioritizing wealth over spiritual health.
7. Do Not Be Deceitful or Dishonest
– Proverbs 12:22: “Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord, but those who act faithfully are His delight.”
– Integrity is important in all relationships and interactions. Avoid deceit and speak truth in love.
8. Do Not Be Double-Minded or Doubtful
James 1:6-8: “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.”
Be firm in your faith and convictions, trusting God in every situation. Avoid wavering between belief and doubt.
9. Do Not Neglect Your Spiritual Life
Hebrews 10:25: “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
– In the new year, prioritize your relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with believers.
Do Not Follow the Ways of the World
– Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
– Avoid adopting worldly values, and instead, focus on the eternal truths of God’s Word to guide your decisions.
Do Not Live for Your Own Glory
– 1 Corinthians 10:31: “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
– Make sure your actions in the new year reflect God’s glory, not self-centered ambitions.
12. Do Not Forget to Thank God
1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
– It’s easy to become focused on what you want to change, but don’t forget to thank God for His blessings, grace, and faithfulness.
13. Do Not Compromise Your Faith
-2 Timothy 4:3-4: “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”
– In a world full of conflicting ideas, stay true to the Word of God and do not compromise your faith.
By avoiding these behaviors and focusing on what pleases God, you can enter the new year with a heart of gratitude, purpose, and spiritual growth. The Bible encourages transformation and renewal, and the new year is a perfect opportunity to make a fresh start in your walk with Christ.
