2020 was a hard year for most of us. With a pandemic, economic woes, racial divides, political tension, and social distancing, 2020 was a year with unique challenges. Some of us were personally affected more than others by the global and nationwide hardships. Others of us were more so affected by personal struggles and disappointments that did not make headline news. No matter which category we personally fall in to, we have all entered a new year. 

 

The start of a new year tends to lead to excitement, planning, and goal setting. While it may be difficult to have excitement in the start of 2021, we can focus our minds and start afresh even after many hardships. 

Rest in Jesus

Jesus offered Himself as a place of refuge and rest in Matthew 11:28 (NKJV) when he said, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." This invitation remains open to us today. As many of us have felt a heaviness due to the circumstances of the world, and even our personal situations, Jesus is inviting us to come to Him and exchange of our burdens for His rest. 

Mind Renewal

For us to have a fresh start in this new year, we must renew our minds to not be overwhelmed by the circumstances of the hardship. The Apostle Paul said in Romans 12:2 (NKJV), "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." 

As we begin 2021, I encourage you to join me in entering a process of mind renewal by exchanging defeating thoughts for thoughts of trust in God. The Greek word equivalent for renewal is metamorpho. Metamorpho means to change into another form whether it is an external change, a change of state, or an internal change. Such transformation of a renewed mind can only happen by the work of the Holy Spirit. Titus 3 reveals that by yielding to the work of the Holy Spirit, mind transformation occurs. Paul indicates that there is transformation when the mind is renewed so that the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God is discerned.

Seek God’s Will for 2021

2021 can be a transformational year, even after 2020 was filled with hardship. Before we set out to accomplish many things in 2021, we must seek God for His plan for our lives. You can start afresh and seek God for His perfect will for you this year. Ephesians 5:17 (NKJV) says, "Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." Let us seek to understand the will of the Lord for our lives in 2021. 

Dayna Lovelady, M.Div., MBA, is a minister, intercessor, writer, musician, and conference speaker. She recently graduated from Regent University with a Master of Divinity degree and works full-time at The Christian Broadcasting Network. www.LinkedIn.com/in/DaynaLovelady