New Year's Choices

Editorial by Rick Remmers

A new year lies before us full of hope and promise. It is a time of year to reflect and refocus. As we begin afresh, we each have goals and aspirations for the days ahead.

Many things are within our grasp; others are beyond our control. It is easy to look at unsettling global events and feel powerless. Nonetheless, each day we get to make choices that will impact how this year will unfold. We can choose to spend time with Jesus and allow Him to mold and shape our lives after His likeness. God’s Word promises “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new” (2 Cor. 5:17, NKJV).

Let us look back at the past year and recognize “old” things that hindered our walk with Jesus. By rooting out those influences and replacing them with the newness of Christ, our lives will transform. Unfortunately, natural disasters will still occur. Crime and disease will take their toll. Even so, each day we can decide to grow with Christ and influence the outcome of 2018 with His direction and blessing.

How can you improve your service to others? How can you share the hope you have in Jesus with others? How can you make a difference, however small, in the lives of those around you? Each choice made for Christ can make a positive, eternal difference for you and all within your sphere of influence.