This New Year Cannot ....

This New Year Cannot …

Larry Hafley, Waverly, TN

    Our country emphasizes the changes of a new year. Many Christians, including me, are caught up in the joy and anticipation of renewal in their lives. That is not at all “bad,” for such feelings may inspire one to reform his attitude and revise his actions. However, this new year is only a calculation of time. It has no “magic formula” to transform us, either for good or ill. This new year cannot:


· Provide a plan of peace and pardon. God did that “in Christ” (2 Cor. 5:19).

· Offer a sacrifice for sin. Jesus did that on the cross (Heb. 10:1-18).

· Change and cleanse your heart. That is your duty (Prov. 4:23; Jas. 4:8).

· Make us happy. God has a plan for happiness (Phil. 4:4-8; 1 Pet. 3:10, 11).

· Cause one to be successful. Fortune is not always fair (Ecc. 7:15; 9:11).

· Promise a long life. We know not what tomorrow may bring (Jas. 4:15-17).

· Forgive last year’s sins. But, God will when we repent (Lk. 15; Jas. 5:16).

· Destroy God’s love for you. “Keep yourselves in the love of God” (Jude 21).

· Erase temptation. We must seek the way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13).

· Dry sorrow’s tears. That is the hope of Heaven (Rev. 21:4).


    There is nothing a new calendar can do to mold and modify you, but you can resolve now to choose the focus and function of your life (Josh. 24:15; Lk. 15:17, 18). In the fullness of time, God’s love sent Christ to die for your sins and mine. Therefore, regardless of what this new year may hold in store, let us resolve to walk wisely and well, “redeeming the time” (Eph. 5:15, 16).