By John Warren

 

Why is it we start over in January?  The holidays have past and we have gained a few pounds, is enough for some.  For others it is the calendar, new year equals a new start.  

But this “turn over a new leaf” stuff seems hard to do in winter when there are no leaves to turn over.  

Whatever it is that entices you for a new start I want you to know it is a God thing. 

Now, a few of you who read this may not think of God as the instigator, you may even question the existence of God for some reason.  But I think that it is right up God’s ally.  

After all, the first thing we find God doing in the Bible is creating.  

In fact, God tells us we are made in his image, we are created to be like God, so that means we have a mind and a talent for creating.  

We above all animals are given the ability to think and reason.  And we are given the job of growing the garden God created – earth. 

Making things new follow the pattern of the seasons, it follows the pattern of life.  

If your life has become stale or boring the new year is a wonderful time to start anew.  

Prophet Isaiah said “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?  I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”   

This means God will bring about change, not just minor things but life-changing change.  Rivers in the desert kind of change.  

So if your life needs a new start God is the way to find it.  And it is not just changing for change sake, but rivers in the desert build upon itself, the whole landscape changes in the desert by a river, it becomes an oasis in the desert.  

Our thirsty souls find water and springs where we will never thirst again when God brings the change we need.  

“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’  For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.  But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”  Matthew 6:31-33.   

Turn over a new leaf and find a place to worship God in your life.