The God of the “New”

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY….  “And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:5

With the passing of my mother, there has been a lot of old pictures and family history that has reminded us of the past. It is part of the process and always provides a sense of perspective and gratitude about the past and that which is “old.”

However, that which is “new” holds a far different interest. We can think of a “fresh” start. We can think of something different that what has been known or experienced. We can think of that which has been known or experienced, becoming completely different.

When we look at the verses of the Bible that hold the promise or contain the description of that which is “new” it provides a sense of anticipation and confidence in the future the Lord has in store for His people. This is most evident in the Book of Revelation.

John begins with the promise to overcomers of a “new name” and a prediction of a “new Jerusalem.” We read of a “new song” and a “new heaven and a new earth.” Then we come to the final chapters and we read the grand declaration, “I am making everything new.”

There are some reasons for the need of that which is “new.” It may because the purpose of something has been fulfilled. It may be due to something being damaged or destroyed. It may be for the need of just something better than what I have or am experiencing.

We see Christ’s forgiveness results in a “new life.” Scripture calls us to put on, a “new a man” created after the image of God. We read of being a “new creature.” The old is passed away and all things become new.

The culmination of God’s plan of redemption is seen in a “new name.” A new identity that comes from Christ. We see a new home as heaven and earth that have experienced God’s judgment is made new. Peter declared that, according to the Lord’s promise we look for a new heaven and a new earth the home of the righteous.

The promise of that which is “new” gives hope and anticipation. That which is, is not what will always be. There is coming a day when troubles cease, pain is erased, sorrow is no more.

We can experience the Lord’s newness now as we anticipate that which is to come. When we pray, “Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven” we are reminded that heaven is about that which is new and renewed. So, let’s embrace the call of being people of hope and good news.

Prayer for today…. Lord, thank you for bringing newness to our lives. We anticipate that day when “all things” are made new in our heavenly home.