| Greetings in the Name of Jesus, Doing NEW things is always what God is up to. He is the Creator, which also means He unfailingly stands ready to lead us into new and creative things. He is THE ONE who will always move us forward into new, creative, and innovative things … If … we repeatedly set our heart to walk with Him by faith. So, it’s clear to me that as we stand at the threshold of a new year, the words of Isaiah 43:18-19 call us to a journey of spiritual renewal and anticipation. The past year, with all its joys and challenges, is now behind us. |
| God, in His infinite wisdom, grace, and creativity, invites us to embrace the newness He has in store … if we turn to HIM in faith … ready to move forward (not fixing on what’s gone before) in faith, walking with HIM. “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” The canvas of the new year is blank, awaiting the brushstrokes of God’s providence. It’s a divine call to release the grip of yesterday, whether it was marked by triumph or trial. God’s mercy invites us to step into the new with unburdened hearts, free from the weight of what has been (Philippians 3:13-14). “See, I am doing a new thing!” What a promise to carry into the coming days! God, who holds time in His hands, is not bound by the constraints of the past. He is continually at work, crafting a narrative of redemption, hope, and transformation. The question echoes, “Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” God’s newness is not always conspicuous; sometimes, it emerges in the subtle whispers of His Spirit, in the gentle nudges towards change and growth. Expect Him to move in creative, even beautiful ways, not necessarily religious ways. In the wilderness of uncertainties that the new year may bring, God declares, “I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Where there seems to be no path, God is the “Waymaker.” In the dry and desolate places, He promises streams of His presence, grace, and provision. Let’s open our hearts to perceive the new thing God is doing. I know we’re doing that very thing here at ACT International. We are excited to see the new things God will do in 2024 through our staff and departments … in 54 countries. May we not be hindered by the shadows of the past but walk in the light of His promises. Our God is a God of fresh beginnings and constant creativity and in Him we find the courage to face the unknown with faith. And that’s what I’m praying for you as we all launch into this new year before us! |
| Dr. Byron Spradlin, President, ACT International – www.actinternational.org |
