The new year is here!
I don’t know about you, but this time of year always brings about a sense of newness, does it not? People all over the world resolve to make new changes in the new year and be a better, or newer version of themselves. I used to hear this phrase used, “New Year, new me!”… whether it be new journeys, new relationships, or new habits, people will embark upon “news” as we enter this new year. This quest for “new” or “fresh” is something that has always been a part of society, even dating back to the days of an old bible character, King Solomon. Now, for those that may not be familiar with Solomon, let me give you the “411” (if you don’t know what the 411 is, ask an adult). Basically, God came to Solomon in a dream one night and stated He would give Solomon whatever he asked for, and Solomon asked for great wisdom…what a wise request! So Solomon became the wisest man to ever walk the earth. Now, this Solomon guy attempted to find satisfaction in life down the “newness” path as well. Whether it was through extravagant parties, through nature’s finest produce, or through promiscuous relationships, Solomon tried it all, and all of it left him feeling empty. In fact, in the book of Ecclesiastes, he calls it all vanity! He tried it all and at the end of the day Solomon said there was “nothing new under the sun”. You see, his quest for newness, his desire for something fresh and unique left him ruined and depleted.
The Crave for Something New
Here is where I think we can learn a valuable lesson from the wisest man to ever live. The society and culture we live in craves “newness” and people are always toiling for something new and better. We must advance, we must move forward, we must progress! And while these things yield certain benefits, let us never forget the gospel of Jesus Christ is still as sufficient today as it has ever been. And the things of God, his holiness, righteousness, grace, and mercy are still the firm foundations that you can build your life on, and you don’t need something “new”. The work has been done, the price has been paid. Colossians says that the believer is “complete in Him”…what great news! Let me ask you this, what would it look like if instead of grasping for all this world has to offer, you placed your faith in Jesus and let Him guide and direct your steps? Or what would your life look like if you re-centered yourself in the truths of scripture? What would your walk with Jesus look like if you stopped pining away for something “new” from God and rooted yourself in what He has already told you? See, the danger that lurks around the corner when we continually strive for something “new”, especially in the Christian walk, is the implication that what has been, is not enough, or is not sufficient. My hope and prayer, this year more than ever, is that you and I would regain the wonder and splendor of the things of old…our God is more than enough, He loves and His word is true and everlasting, the same yesterday, today and tomorrow and it is sufficient for you, and for me. In fact, want to know what Solomon concluded after all of his adventurings? I’d encourage you to read the end of the book of Ecclesiastes, the final two verses, and find out!
Recapturing the Old
You know, what has always puzzled me is how so often people refuse to heed the advice of those that have gone before them in situations in life. Whether it be relational, financial, or situational advice, we are naturally people who have to touch the proverbial “hot stove” ourselves before we will learn life’s valuable lessons. May that not be the case here! Why wouldn’t you heed the advice of the wisest man to ever live? Take the words of King Solomon to heart and remember, “there is nothing new under the sun”.
Consider making 2022 the year of recapturing the old.
