As we think about this New Year, there are things that we need to remember to have a good year. The decisions and choices we make will determine the kind of year we can have. Therefore, let’s notice some suggestions that will help us to have a good year.
Apologize when we do wrong. The three words, “I am sorry” are difficult to say for those filled with pride. If you would, think of the relationships, homes and even congregations that have been destroyed because one who has committed sin, will not humble himself to repent (Matt. 5:23-24, 18:15-17; Lk. 17:3-4).
Accept good advice. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the council of the ungodly. . . But his delight is in the law of the Lord” (Psa. 1:1-2). “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise: (Prov. 12:15). Now, certainly we must be able to distinguish between foolish and wise counsel.
Avoid conforming to the world. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed . . .” (Rom. 12:2). We must all come to terms that the world is out to mold and shape us into that which the Lord does not want. Thus, when on begins to “love” the world and “live” like the world, we are unable to have a “good year” spiritually (1 Jn. 2:15-17).
Act only after thinking. Some of the greatest problems we have in this life have been brought upon ourselves because we forgot to stop and think before we acted or spoke. Therefore, we need to “taste” our words and “weigh” the consequences of our actions before we speak and react (Phil. 4:8; Eph. 4:29; Gal. 5:19-21).
Adhere to the Word of God. God has given us, through His Word, that which we need in this life (2 Pet. 1:3). Hence, it is the Scriptures that provide and is profitable for our spiritual well-being (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Therefore, as we apply the Word of God to our lives, we are providing the means by which we can have a “good year” and ultimately a home in Heaven.
Appreciate God. Without God in our lives it is impossible to have a “good year” as He desires and demands. Thus, if we do appreciate and reverence God as we should, then it will be seen in our life (Eccl. 12:13)