New Beginnings

When I awoke on January 1st, everything around me looked the same. Just another day, or so it seemed, but it really wasn't. It was the first day in the year 2008, and there would never ever be another of its kind. Well intentioned people once again make resolutions they would try to keep, though statistically, most resolutions would not make it past the first couple of weeks. We try anyways, because in looking back on the past year, most of us have probably felt that there are things we want to do differently, to be better at. Truth be known, we desire to be better persons, and so inherent in our resolutions is the desire to use the New Year to "start over".

In Christian theology, the number eight represents "new birth" or "new beginnings". Eight persons survived the Noahic Flood, which was a type of Salvation, New Birth (1 Peter 3:20), and according to Genesis 17:12, circumcision was performed on the 8th day after the completion of the first category of 7 days; similarly, salvation the beginning of a new life (Colossians 2:11, 13). While every day is a good start to "start over", in Biblical Numerology the year 2008 is an exciting time for the believer because from God's perspective, it represents something new. Not necessarily new things materially, though that is always possible, but even more importantly, a renewed awakening in the inner man that will see wonderful moves of God in our individual lives. In the same way that Noah and his family stepped out of the ark into a new beginning, the child of God also has that privilege. We can step out of worry, fear, doubt, lack, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, sickness, and whatever else, simply because we serve a God of new beginnings.

As we commence this year, may we resolve to do as the Wisdom writer recommended: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart, and lean not upon thine own understanding: In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5,6). It's all part and parcel of a new beginning; letting go and letting God. Afterall, He knows what He is doing.

To you and yours, God's very best for a year of abundant blessings.