We’re already sailing through January, but I wonder if there are any of you who still desire a fresh start in this new year?
I’m not talking about just the normal reset that a new year inspires us to do, but a complete fresh start in life. Do you feel as if you have been carrying around the heaviness of sin and guilt and you would do anything to be able to lay it down? Perhaps you took things too far over the holidays and you feel the shame of your actions. Or maybe you’ve held on to unforgiveness for so long that it’s turned into bitterness or even hatred for a family member or friend. You know that you don’t want to live like this any longer, but you’re not sure how to get back on track. You desperately need a fresh start.
If this is resonating with you, I have some excellent news: you do have access to a new life! All you have to do is confess your sin to the One who can forgive.
Micah 7:18 says,
“Who is a God like our God? Who pardons our sins and forgives. He does not stay angry. But delights to show us mercy. “
Did you hear that? He DELIGHTS to give us mercy. He is not a God who withholds His goodness expecting us to live perfect, flawless lives. All He asks is that we come to Him with honest and open hearts and He will do the rest, providing us with a life of freedom! No sin or issue is too great for our grace-filled God for He is faithful and just to forgive.
If this is something that you desire, I encourage you to start with confessing what it is that is holding you back from living in freedom today. From there, it may be that you need to address specific behaviors, find a Christian counselor, or set up a meeting for reconciliation between you and your loved one. Whatever it may be, don’t allow another year, month, or even day to go by without receiving your fresh start!