BEGIN ANEW

Two weeks have nearly passed and hopefully all of you reading this
have started writing "2013" and not "2012" on things requiring a date.
A new year, a new date, and new adventures. What are you doing in this
brand new year to start anew?

A new endeavor, a hobby, or a goal in mind? Something to reach for or
finish? Procrastinators are happy for the first few weeks of the new
year each time it rolls around but not so thrilled when December 31st
approaches and they are still stuck in the same rut of not
accomplishing what was intended.

What is it you have set for your goals in 2013? Do any of them have
spiritual significance? Some ideas would be showing kindness to
strangers. Perhaps helping a family in need. Maybe writing to your
mom if she is still living and does not do email. Showing Jesus' love
in your job or wherever life has you at the moment. Being kind and
respectful to those closest to us. Sharing what God has blessed you
with if you see a need you can help meet. Reading the Bible daily and
starting a journal. Changing churches if you just go out of habit.

Praying with fervor and not just a "lay me downtown sleep" prayer. Not
gossiping or complaining or in other words, mouth control. Why not set
some goals for how you can be closer to the Lord in 2013. After all
you have a brand new year to shine for Him.

Move on and aim high. Aim high for Jesus!

Philippians 4:13 (NIV) is a good verse to commit to memory and it says
'I can do all things through Him that gives me strength.'

PRAYER: Thank you Lord for the gift of a new fresh start and a brand
new year. It is a chance to forget the past and make things right. I
look forward to spending time in your word daily Lord. The enemy has
no power over me in Jesus' mighty name. Help my light shine bright for
you in 2013! In Jesus' name. Amen.