NOTE: This was originally published New Year’s 2016, but still inspires today.

With a new year before us, we look to the Bible for direction. Fortunately, the Bible is rich in stories and words of renewal and of God’s loving plan for each and every one of our lives. Here are seven verses to keep in mind as the new year begins.

The Promise of Renewal

Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

God’s Timing

Be still before the Lord, and wait patiently for him (Psalm 37:7)

Leaving the Past Behind

Remember not the former things,
    nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I am doing a new thing;
    now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?

(Isaiah 43:18-19)

The Lord Has a Plan for Us

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Hope for the Future

Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. (Proverbs 23:18)

Renewal of Heart and Spirit

And I will give them one[a] heart, and put a new spirit within them; I will take the stony heart out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh. (Ezekiel 11:19)

Trust in the Lord

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)