Comfort a child in foster care with a suitcase, teddy bear, and a Bible

All Things New, Again - Encouragement Café - January 7

All Things New, Again
 By Dawn Mast

He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:5

When we bought our van it smelled new. Now, almost 10 years and 178,000 miles later, I'd call it history scented. Long road trips to the beach and cross country, many soccer games hauling sweaty players, moments of carsickness (including the 100 pound dog!), and many moments at the drive-thru when we agreed to fries with our order.

Our babies used to smell new too. When they were handed to us just moments after being declared "a boy!" or "a girl!" they snuggled into me and I sniffed their tiny heads. Still wet and wondering where they had landed, I took in the new smell that only God can make.

Recreating new isn't easy. Sometimes it's really impossible. Even on those home improvement shows they sometimes blend the historical old with the brand new.

But New Year's is different. We get an untouched 365 (or 366) days where no one but the Lord has been. We get a "do over". A chance to have a clean slate and to start fresh. It feels like a spring cleaning in the midst of winter, this New Year.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 NIV

Just this verse gives us hope of starting over and we don't need a calendar to do it.

Every day can be our new year because we have Jesus and He makes us clean. He freshens our spirits and scours our hearts so we can start over. We will never be perfect, holy and flawless like Him, but that's not the goal. Knowing we can come to Him, trust Him and give Him our hardest, messiest selves is part of the glue that will encourage our hearts to continue to trust Him. He will keep making us new.

Father God, You are the only One who makes all things new. Hearts. People. Years. It's all up to You. I need newness in my life. I need to know that tomorrow is another day with no mistakes and that You are already there. Thank You for being there and for knowing that we all need a new beginning. We praise You Father! Amen!

All Things New by Hillsong Worship

For more encouragement, visit Dawn at thatdawnedonme.wordpress.com.

© 2020 by Dawn Mast. All rights reserved.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  Pull up a chairHe’s been waiting for you.

Need a refill?  Please join us at the Encouragement Café with Luann and Friends

The conversation at the Café is always hot and fresh.  We invite you to listen in as we gather around the table to discuss everyday life.

Comfort food for your soul is always on our menuand friends are always close enough to hug.  We invite you to join us daily, as our writer’s share how the Lord continues to transform them into His glorious image.

Still craving more…Join us as we grow together in grace and truth through our online bible study.

Stop by Encouragement Café and listen as the girls share life. Find podcasts, videos, Bible studies, prayer, resources and daily helpings of hope, laughter and friendship around our table. We've saved a seat just for you!

SHARE

Christianity / Devotionals / Encouragement Café / All Things New, Again - Encouragement Café - January 7