There’s a big banner in our sanctuary right now. It has the words “A Fresh Start” on it. Ironically (what are the odds?), it’s the same theme as we’re using for our message series this month. I like the banner. And I like the theme.
Here’s the problem. A banner and a sermon title don’t really guarantee that any of us will have a fresh start (although they look mighty nice).
So what’s involved in a fresh start for a new year (besides remembering to do this blog more regularly)? Here are some ideas…
- Taking a good look at the Lord and what He might ask of you (Micah 6:6-8 )
- Receiving the forgiveness that Jesus came to make available to anyone who would come to Him (John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9)
- Loving and forgiving and talking directly to people that you’d rather keep at arm’s length (Matthew 18:35, Ephesians 4:32)
- Living a life that honors the body that the Lord has given you, a temple of the Holy Spirit, made in His image (1 Corinthians 6:19, Genesis 1:27)
- Living a life that honors the body of Christ–the church, His Bride, by choosing to enjoy the fellowship rather than tearing her down (Ephesians 5:25-27, Acts 2:42-47)
- Finding a place to serve in your church, your community and your home (Matthew 20:28 )
At the end of the day, Satan has a well-crafted plan to keep us from enjoying a fresh start together, but the Bible tells us that the one who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world…which means that only one person can stop you from having what God is holding out to you.
I’m looking forward to learning more with you about what this fresh start looks like…and then living it out!
