Let’s Start
Happy New Year, everyone! January is here and almost gone, and many of us are energized and eager for what’s ahead. Some of us began making plans back in November, preparing resolutions, and reflecting on last year's achievements and setbacks. We’re thinking about saving money, planning vacations, pursuing promotions, reconnecting with old friends, and distancing ourselves from certain people. For some of us the New Year offers a chance for a fresh start.
However, not everyone feels that excitement. For some, the New Year brings a need to slow down and take things day by day. Many may have felt anxious as November and December approached, wishing for more time in 2024 to finish projects and grow. Some are still working on their 2025 goals, while others may not have started at all.
Regardless of who you are, whether you’re an eager achiever or tend to procrastinate, we all have something in common. You might have a clear idea of what you want in 2025 or feel a strong desire for change to avoid repeating 2024.
However the key connection we share is how difficult it may be To Start. Taking that crucial first step can lead to transformative experiences and personal growth. We just need to Start.
Starting something new can be quite difficult for many people because it often involves stepping outside their familiar comfort zone, facing the inherent uncertainty that comes with new experiences, and grappling with the persistent fear of potential failure. This combination of challenges makes the initial step the most daunting and challenging part of the journey, even if the new activity is something they genuinely want to pursue. As a result, this is precisely why so many individuals find it hard to muster the courage to begin, despite having a strong desire to change and embrace new opportunities in their lives.
The Bible contains numerous verses regarding the theme of starting anew, but these two particular verses truly resonated with me and stood out for their significance and uplifting messages.
Isaiah 43:18-19 says, "Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert"
In this passage, God asks people to stop dwelling on the past and instead look to the future. God is calling people to turn to him for salvation and to give up sold ways.
and
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new".
The verse beautifully illustrates the transformation that occurs when one is in Christ; it signifies a state of being reborn and renewed through the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. This divine renewal leads to the development of a new moral compass and an enriched spiritual condition. Once you’ve fully surrendered your will and turned to God’s guidance, you embark on a deeply fulfilling journey of faith that reshapes your very essence.
Jesus says in Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
In Matthew 11:29, Jesus graciously invites people to take up his yoke and learn from him. His yoke is described as easy, and his burden is light because he compassionately carried the weight that individuals were meant to carry. And, in turn, he will carry yours as well. As you embark on this New Year, start with Jesus and courageously give away the burdens of worry, fear, anxieties, overthinking, control issues, and anything else heavy that you are currently carrying. While Jesus did not claim that his burden was easy, he assured us that it was light. This implies that there will still be certain things you will need to carry as we move into the New Year; however, starting with Jesus will provide you with a reliable source of trust, comfort, and guidance. You will have someone to lean on and turn to whenever you feel overwhelmed by the challenges you are facing and in need of support and love.
Let’s make the word for 2025 “Start”, begin , initiate, Commence, launch. Départ Beginn, comienzo, inizio, começo, начало, 开始, początek
Pick Up Your Pen!
Let’s start the journey by picking up our pens!
It’s time to start attending church regularly and seek out a community that supports our spiritual growth.
Let’s start saving our resources wisely and actively plan for our future.
Let’s start to love others just as deeply as we cherish our own well-being. I
Let’s start to love ourselves truly and wholeheartedly.
Let’s start being more self-discipline and approach our goals with determination.
Let’s start to practice some obedience to our highest ideals and values.
As we step into this New Year, let’s embark on this transformative journey with our renewed selves. Let’s start with faith in Jesus!
If you’re looking to dive fully into your spiritual journey, begin with the Bible App. The website Bible.com offers a wide array of resources that can effectively help you start and deepen your relationship with God. You’ll find everything from guided prayers to an endless selection of plans that may fit and resonate with your unique walk in life. Additionally, there are informative videos, helpful reminders, and much more to assist you along the way. Take a moment to explore Bible.com and Start With Jesus today!
Are You Interested in Being Part of the Eat Pray and Meditate Community and helping to build a core foundation? We want to hear from you, Email us eatpraymeditate@yahoo.com
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”