A New Beginning
Phil Deakin

2023 is over, and we’re in the new year. It’s new with possibilities, excitement and perhaps trepidation… what’s ahead? It could be a new job, a marriage or a new child coming. Maybe it’s a relocation or key goals to accomplish. Let’s see what the Bible says about new beginnings.

Cast Out of Eden
Adam and Eve listened to the serpent and disobeyed God, forfeiting the Garden of Eden. We read, So he drove out the man (Genesis 3:24). This was a forced change for Adam and Eve…life went on despite this huge setback. Sometimes we are forced into a new beginning and must simply do with what He hands us.

Noah’s Flood
Noah walked with God and was a preacher of righteousness. Yet, God saw the widespread corruption of mankind. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth (Genesis 6:13.) At God’s direction, Noah built the ark and his family was saved. God may bring you to a new beginning because of what is coming to the earth, and we can prepare as God directs.

God Called Abram (Abraham)
Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee (Genesis 12:1). Through this call of God, the nation of the Hebrews was created. Abraham’s faith fulfilled God’s plan for His chosen people. God has a plan for you and your family, and we can answer His call in faith.

Israel Entered the Promised Land
Later, the Hebrews were enslaved in Egypt, but God brought them out. As they were about to enter Canaan, God said, Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest (Joshua 1:9). God encouraged them despite walled cities, giants, and many enemies. Sometimes God has a Promised Land ahead, and it takes courage to overcome.

The Coming of Jesus and His Ministry
The Messiah of Israel came to save the souls of mankind. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn (Luke 2:7). Jesus Christ fulfilled His entire life purpose at the cross, the tomb, the resurrection, and to the very throne of heaven. He followed God’s plan for humanity and He lives today!

Your New Beginning
This verse says it all:
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). Perhaps you may sense your need to commit yourself to new life in Jesus Christ. Rest assured that His plans for the New Year are perfect!

Rev. Phil Deakin teaches Adult Sunday School at Living Hope Assembly of God in Blair