Focal Passage: John 3:4-18
Over the years, I’ve found New Year’s Day to be so refreshing and encouraging. Have you ever felt this way?
Whether it’s psychological or practical, there is a sense in which beginning a new year offers closure to the failures and disappointments of the past, and provides hope, renewal and fresh motivation for what is ahead.
For many, this might mean a change in diet and exercise, or a commitment to be more financially responsible, or a plan to start a new project or goal. Whatever the case might be, Jan. 1 offers an invitation to start over and begin something new — and that can be very liberating to experience.
When it comes to a saving relationship with God, the Bible likewise emphasizes that a major restart is needed in our lives. But rather than us just making a few changes and improvements to who we are, the Scriptures indicate that the Holy Spirit must totally transform our hearts if we want to be right with God. [Read more…]