Welcome to Jesus is Calling Devotional for Today, January 2nd, 2025.

TOPIC: Embracing New Beginnings 

Scripture Focus: 2 Cor 5:17

Life is full of changes. Sometimes these changes can feel hard or even scary. We might be afraid of leaving what is familiar to us. It’s natural to want to stay where we are comfortable. But new beginnings are a part of life, and they are important.

The Bible teaches us that when we come to Jesus, we become new people. This is something wonderful! When we start a new chapter in life, it’s like having a fresh start. We get a chance to let go of the old things that have held us back and step forward with new hope and strength.

It is not always easy to embrace new beginnings. Often, we feel uncertain about what lies ahead. Change can make us nervous because we don’t know what to expect. But as believers, we are called to trust God with our lives.

In 2 Corinthians 5:17, it says, “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” This verse reminds us that God gives us the power to start fresh. Even when we feel scared or unsure, we can trust that God has a good plan for us. Embracing new beginnings means letting go of fear and trusting God’s plan.

To make the most of a new beginning, there are a few things we can do. First, we need to start by praying. Prayer is a way to talk to God and ask for His help.

It’s a way of saying, “God, I don’t know exactly what to do, but I trust You. Please guide me.” Prayer helps us to stay connected with God and remember that He is always with us. When we ask for His help, He gives us the strength and wisdom we need to face the future.

Next, we need to let go of the past. Sometimes we carry old hurts, mistakes, or fears that make it hard to move forward. But when we accept Jesus into our hearts, He gives us the ability to forgive ourselves and others. This is very important.

If we keep holding on to things that happened before, we can’t fully enjoy the new things God has for us. It’s like trying to walk forward while looking backward – it’s hard to move when we are focused on the past. God wants to help us let go of anything that stops us from moving forward.

As we embrace new beginnings, we also need to make good choices. We can choose to think about positive things, like the love of God, the joy He brings, and the hope we have in Him. When we focus on these things, it’s easier to stay hopeful, even when things don’t seem perfect. We can also choose to act in ways that honor God.

For example, we can be kind to others, work hard, and follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Every new day is a chance to choose the path that leads closer to God.

It’s important to remember that new beginnings are not always easy. There will be times when we face difficulties. Life is not always perfect, and challenges will come. But the good news is that God is with us. He is always ready to help us, and He will never leave us.

When we face problems, we can turn to God for help. He will give us the strength to keep going, even when things are tough. A new beginning doesn’t mean everything will be perfect, but it does mean that we can face challenges with God by our side.

Another thing to remember about new beginnings is that they are not just about changing our circumstances. It’s also about changing our hearts. God doesn’t just want to change the outside of our lives. He wants to change us from the inside. He wants us to become more like Jesus, full of love, patience, kindness, and peace.

As we embrace new beginnings, God works in our hearts to help us grow. The more we trust Him, the more we become the person He created us to be.

Today, as you think about new beginnings, remember that God is offering you a fresh start. Don’t be afraid to embrace the changes He has for you. Trust that He has a good plan for your life. Let go of anything that is holding you back and move forward with hope and faith. God will guide you and help you every step of the way.

Let’s pray together:

Dear God, thank You for the new beginning You have given me today. I choose to let go of the past and trust You with my future. Please guide me and give me the strength to move forward with hope. Help me to make wise choices and follow Your path. When challenges come, remind me that You are always with me. Thank You for Your love and for the fresh start You give me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.