Ralph Waldo Emerson once penned, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” This is a statement that applies to all of us no matter who we think we are or the direction in which that our life is heading.
Each and every day that the Lord allows us to wake up is a new beginning. What we’ve done in the past is gone and there is no way we can recoup it. Yes, maybe there is a way to make amends for something we regret doing or saying but we have to make up our mind this is what we want to do and what we are going to do.
None of us, even though some think they are invincible, can predict the future. No one is promised a tomorrow, not even the next day, or even the next few minutes. God can call us home or end our life at any moment.
The only thing we have at this moment is this moment. We all have hopes and desires but the only thing we have is right now. It is a gift, that is why it is called the ‘present’. Each one of us needs to use it wisely.
As we look forward to a new year all of us should look to love more, enjoy life more, and treat everyone with which we come into contact with the same demeanor that we want to be treated with. I firmly believe this is the only way we will ever achieve world peace.
We are told in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5; “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
Why is it that we look for the worst in people in most instances, instead of looking for the good? We seem to live in a world that loves to see people hurt, especially if their lives are better than ours. Many people are selfish in their worldly desires and will try to accomplish these desires in whatever manner they need to use. Why do we do this? Why can’t we learn to get along with everyone around us and help those that are floundering with decisions about their life?
All of us, and it doesn’t matter who we are, can resolve to start the New Year with a new attitude of love. Let’s look for the best in people. Let’s help those that are struggling. Many are struggling with financial issues, health issues, habitual habits that are harmful to themselves, family issues, friendship issues, and there are many more that I could name. We need to put aside our selfish desires and be more open to those around us even though it may not be something we want to do.
We are told in Mark 12:31; “…Love you neighbor as yourself…” Wouldn’t this be a great way to start a New Year?
