Around the world this year, babies will be born and begin a brand new life on earth.

For those of us who’ve been around a while, there have been many times we’ve wanted to start anew as well.

Paul wrote to believers, “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4).

New life is something God offers all people. A chance to start over with a clean slate means complete forgiveness.

Peter wrote to believers, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

Our new life should look different from our old way of life. Paul taught to put off the old self and “put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:10).

Being made new is a life-long process. Praise God, we can always come before Him, confess our sins, receive forgiveness, and begin anew. Jeremiah writes, “Because of the LORD’S great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

It’s a new year! If you’ve never chosen to follow Jesus, there is no better time. Believe that He is God’s Son who died for the sins of all people. Accept Him. Live for Him. He will live in you and His Holy Spirit will guide you through the new year and in your new life.

Happy New Year!