Dr. Bill Bagents, Vice President of Academic Affairs
Heritage Christian University

In just a matter of days we officially close another year. Like every year, 2006 has had its triumphs and its tragedies, its joys and its sorrows. There are things that we want to forget and move beyond. There are things that we want to remember and use to help us keep growing in Christ.

We’re wise to forget insults and slights that we’ve perceived. Unless these were matters involving sin, it’s wonderful to give people the benefit of the doubt. It’s wonderful to give them a fresh slate for the start of the New Year. Of course if sin was involved, the passing of time changes nothing regarding one’s spiritual status. Only repentance and God’s forgiveness can erase a sin. Matthew 5:21-26, 6:14-15 and 18:15-17 must be honored by those who love God.

We’re wise to forget disappointments with God. Sometimes in some respects our expectations exceed God’s promises. When that’s the case, our expectations need adjustment. God is good. God is right. He loves us more than we love ourselves. He blesses us more than we realize.

We’re wise to remember every good word and every good deed that brethren directed toward us. We’re wise to remember that by doing good, they imitated our Lord (Acts 10:38). By doing good, they encouraged us. They challenged us to abound in God’s work (1 Corinthians 15:58). They brought glory to God (Matthew 5:16).

We’re wise to remember that every New Year brings immeasurable opportunity. So many souls need to hear the gospel. So many hurting people need to be comforted. So many good words need to be spoken. So many good deeds need to be done. And in Christ, we are more able than ever to do these good things. In Christ, we can multiply the triumphs and joys of this New Year. May God bless us all in the effort!

N NOW. Today. This moment. It’s precious. It’s a precious gift from God. I’ll use it to His glory.
E EVERY. This year, I’ll thank God for every grace and every opportunity. I’ll thank God for every challenge and every tear. It every situation, He is my strength.
W WOW! This year, I’ll pay extra attention to the beauty of God’s creation and the wonders of God’s grace. Even little treasures won’t be little in my heart.

Y YES! I’ll look for ways to say “yes” to the doors of opportunity that God opens for me. I’ll keep asking God to give me more zeal for love and good works.
E EXCELLENCE. I’ll strive for excellence in my service to God. I won’t fall into the trap of perfectionism, but I will give my best to the Lord.
A ALWAYS. In this New Year, I won’t make a plan or a decision without prayer. I will always ask God’s blessings and God’s direction in my life.
R REJOICE. In this New Year, I’ll prize and treasure Philippians 4:4-9. I’ll find the joy, appreciate the joy and share the joy of being in Christ.

HAPPY NEW YEAR -- TOMMY