Here we go again...Just days away from a new year with high expectations 2023 will be different than the last. Maybe you’ve decided this is the year you’re going to eat healthier and start exercising. Perhaps you want to break a bad habit, or you have a goal of completing a task. Our resolutions can range from simple desires to extensive life changes. What we all have in common is the hope that something will change and life will be better in the year ahead.

If you’re like me though, I usually fail at my resolutions. Last year I had the goal of reading my Bible in a year. I started out strong but then breast cancer struck my life in March. I fell behind on reading. I was discouraged with myself and gave up on my goal by September. Honestly, I was ashamed that I didn’t follow through. Instead of giving up though, I’m going to try again this year. Also, I’m going to be more intentional about asking God to help me. Looking back, I realize I tried to do it all on my own. No plan will ever be successful fueled by our own strength.

Maybe you’ve had multiple attempts to kick a habit or sin you’ve been wrestling with. You’ve tried to overcome it but it’s been nothing but a stumbling block in your life. I have good news for you…YOU can’t fix your issues but Jesus can! He was born. He died. He reigns! That means this year, this month, today, is filled with hope for a better future…IN HIM. You don’t have to white-knuckle it anymore and try to figure it out on your own. Whatever your struggle might be, you too can turn from your sin and give it to the ultimate Life Changer.

When we desire to change, we have the perfect example to follow: Jesus. We have the perfect guidebook to follow: The Bible. We have the perfect companion to strengthen us: His Spirit. We have the perfect form of communication with Jesus: Prayer. As you surrender to God, He will start over with you. You have all the tools. You can have exactly what you are seeking…a new beginning.

-April Sather, 88.3 WAFJ Morning Show  

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13