A Bold New Year

A bold new year? What sights and sounds come to your mind when you see or hear those words? Fireworks, poppers, light displays, and party invitations? The new year arrives with plans, goals, and the ever present list of things to do. Those activities may be prioritized in various orders. What will the bold new year bring to you?

There are times when I need a list. Other times, lists are not necessary. Either way, I need to remember the true reason why I believe things need to be accomplished. The first step in facing a bold new year is to make sure to put God at the top of the list and continue to include God in every moment. I pray that I will truly shine the light of Christ and not place focus on myself.

How will I face the new year with hope when life is uncertain and the news is full of doom and gloom? God. Yes, make God the center of life. From when my eyes open in the morning to the closing of each day while preparing for sleep, I want my focus to remain on God.

“Why are you so happy all the time? Don’t you know the world is in chaos? Don’t you watch the news?” A friend posed those questions to me and others while we gathered for lunch recently. Raised eyebrows, frowns, and even a few tears were some of the responses to the question.

Pausing and continuing to listen to this person rant and question life, I waited to answer. Finally, when her words had stopped, I spoke. “Friend, yes, you are right. The world is in chaos. The news reports are terrifying. But, I refuse to hide away and focus on the bad. I have hope. The hope that is found in Jesus Christ. When times are tough and there seems to be no escape or answer, lean in to the Lord. Give Him your worries and concerns.”

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” ( Isaiah 41:10 NIV)

Knowing she might not want to listen or that she might respond negatively, I waited to continue. There was no harsh reply from the woman. I continued speaking. “I get scared sometimes, too. But, remember fear is not from the Lord. When we need comfort and peace, we can go to God in prayer and lay our burdens down with Him.”

Admitting that I, too, am afraid sometimes, was a step in relating to my friend. She shared that because I was most always smiling and happy, she didn’t think I had any worries or perhaps I didn’t care.

Sharing my faith in a bold way was the opportunity for my friend and I to grow closer. Also, reminding her of God’s love provided a way for her to develop a deeper relationship with God.

Sometimes, sharing our faith in a bold way can be intimidating. We question if our words will be correct and wonder how we would answer questions about God and the Bible.
God will provide the words if we ask for His guidance.
We can share our faith in God with people of all ages. In the new year, think of ways to express God’s love. Make this a bold new year of reminding people that God loves them.

Happy New Year,
In His Name,
Melissa Henderson