As you look back over the past year, do you see patterns
that need amending, habits that need rending, and do you find yourself
defending your actions and attitudes? Are you longing for something different
this year? If you want to move ahead, start over, and experience a year of
victory, not defeat, then maybe this prayer will help to inspire you.
Lord Jesus, I come to you in this brand new year with a
desire to move forward, not backward. Last year is gone, and with it all the
foolish mistakes I made. I’m eager to put the past behind and to press on
toward the mark of knowing you, loving you, serving you, and making Your name
known in this coming year.
I don’t ask for cheap grace, because I know it cost You,
Your life. You gave everything for me, so I could have a new beginning—every
day of every year. Thank You for Your underserved favor and unlimited mercy—and
Your grace, that keeps on giving. Thank You for making me Your child. Forgive
me for ignoring Your voice at times, for pursuing my own pleasures, and for
letting my priorities slip. Your promise is like gold to me: Your offer of
forgiveness, Your unfailing compassion, and Your new mercies daily.
