The God of new beginnings
by Rev. Mike Mounts, Pastor of Bellview FWB Church

I still recall watching an episode of the old black & white classic: Leave It To Beaver. In one particular scene Beaver, Wally, and two of their friends were in the front yard, flaton their backs, looking straight into the sky. After a few moments of silence, Beaver asked his friends this most important question: "Do you ever think about God?"

Do you ever think about God- who He really is as revealed in the Scriptures? Much could be written about God. After all, He's infinite! But as we enter into a new year, let's consider His desire and delight in new beginnings.

Here are but a few we discover in Genesis, the "Book of Beginnings:" Creation, man, marriage, the first promise of a Redeemer, human government, and the nations (including the nation of Israel).

The Scriptures are replete of men and women who desperately needed a new beginning. King David, Nicodemus (a very religious man), the Samaritan woman who was a moral wreck, and the demon possessed, are only a few examples. Then of course there was Saul of Tarsus an adversary of Christ, who was transformed into Paul an apostle of Christ.

Paul knew first hand, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new" (2 Cor. 5:17). Christ alone gives this life. It's more than refurbished or renovated life- it's entirely new in quality and character- a new beginning. By His grace, God provides a New Covenant and offers forgiveness of sin to even the vilest sinner.

He also promises to every believer a new heaven, where He will one day "wipe away every tear from [our] eyes." There will be no more sorrow, nor more death, no more crying, and no more pain.

Now what about you? As a husband or wife, your marriage may need a fresh start and a new beginning. Perhaps as a husband you haven't loved your wife to the extent that Christ loves the church. As a wife, you may need to submit more to your husband's loving and loyal leadership. Perhaps you've been unfaithful to your spouse in some way- God gives you a new day and a new opportunity for a brand-new start.

As a son or daughter, maybe you've rebelled against your parents and have gone your own reckless way. Let this be the day of reconciliation.

As a mother or father, you may need to start anew with your child. Maybe you've given them everything but yourself. Perhaps you've shown them how to get ahead, but you've never shown them how to get to heaven. There's nothing wrong in saying to your child, "I'm sorry," and get a new start (the right start) as a family.

As a student, maybe you're dragging your feet, and you're not making the grade or reaching your potential. A new quarter or semester begins this month. Go for it!

Maybe you've experienced a broken relationship with someone (with anyone), and you harbor bitterness and unforgiveness. Why not take the first step toward a fresh start with that individual?

God gives each of us ample opportunity for a new beginning and a new start. He gives a new year. He provides a new month. He offers a new week. He's even given you a new day- today.

But just remember, "Yesterday is a canceled check. Tomorrow is a promissory note. Today is the only cash you have- spend it wisely."