Hello 2017, hello new year filled with new exciting chapters waiting to be explored. A chance to start over, a chance to let go of the old, and embrace the new. Maybe you’re excited to lean into all that 2017 holds, whilst some of you may feel hesitant, almost as if 2016 is still lurking behind you and holding you in its grip. We can’t pretend like 2017 isn’t going to happen, and we most certainly can’t hide under a rock and pretend like life is not moving forward either.

We need to embrace this New year, with a new attitude, with a new sense of confidence and excitement for all that 2017 holds. Which means we need to let go of the old in order to move forward with our heads held high and our hearts open to all the lessons and blessings that 2017 holds.

WHEN WE HOLD ONTO THE OLD

  • We can’t move forward if we are still looking behind us.
  • We can’t grow if we let the past consume and control us.
  • We can’t live a life of joy and expectation when our heart is full of pain, disappointment, or fear.

Therefore, we need to let go of the negative things that happened in 2016. We need a fresh attitude, fresh perspective, and we need to start acknowledging all the good things that did happen in 2016. Gratitude keeps our hearts soft , open, and eager with expectation.

LET GO OF THE OLD AND KNOW

1 . YOUR FUTURE IS SECURE, therefore hold onto hope.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11

2 . GOD MAKES ALL THINGS NEW

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” – Lamentations 3 : 22-24

3 . GOD WILL STRENGTHEN YOU, take heart.

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. – Isaiah 40:31

A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU

My friend you are called for greatness. In fact, God made you so unique, with special gifts and talents that nobody else has. You my friend are a gift, a blessing to others. Our lives are meant to be enjoyed, not simply endured. Rise up, take heart and know that you are so loved, and have been called for greatness. Do not let the past or fear of failure and disappointment hold you back from experiencing a wonderful life. Let go, and let God do the rest.