Pressing On: New Beginnings in Christ

As we step into a new year, many of us reflect on the past and set goals for the future. The turning of the calendar reminds us that we have an opportunity to start afresh. For Christians, this is not just a cultural practice but a deeply spiritual truth. Through Christ, we are given the ultimate new beginning.

The Apostle Paul captures this beautifully in Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV):
“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Paul encourages us to let go of the past—not because it is insignificant but because it does not define us. We cannot control the events or pain of yesterday, but we can decide how we will respond today. With God’s help, we can choose to move forward with purpose and hope.

Becoming a New Creation

When we come to Christ, everything changes. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) reminds us:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

This transformation means we are no longer bound by the mistakes, regrets, or even the achievements of the past. In Christ, we are continually being renewed, molded more into His image, and empowered to live a life that honors Him.

Decisions Shape the Future

While the past is behind us, the future is shaped by the choices we make today. Ephesians 4:22-24 (NIV) urges us:
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

Living as a “new creation” requires daily decisions to align our lives with God’s Word and His will. It starts with small, consistent acts of obedience—choosing to pray, to forgive, to serve, and to trust God in every area of life.

Pressing On with Hope

As we set resolutions or goals for this new year, let’s focus on becoming the person God calls us to be. This might mean setting aside distractions, releasing bitterness, or trusting God in areas where we’ve held on to control. It might also mean embracing His grace for our failures and allowing Him to redeem what was broken.

Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV) provides a powerful reminder of God’s ability to bring newness:
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

God is always at work, even when we feel stuck. He invites us to partner with Him, trusting that He will guide us and provide all we need to live faithfully.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is one thing from the past year that you need to leave behind in order to move forward in faith?
  2. How does being a “new creation” in Christ change the way you view your goals for this year?
  3. What daily decisions can you make to grow into the person God is calling you to be?

As we step into this new year, let’s press on with confidence in God’s promises. Let’s forget what is behind, strive toward what is ahead, and live as the new creations we are in Christ.

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