This is the time of year when all of us do a little self- examination. We find that this is an appropriate time since the old year is now past and we stand at the gates of a New Year. This is the time when many of us look back and take note of the mistakes that we have made last year and determine or resolve to do better in the New Year. We look back on our personal habits, our likes and dislikes, our jobs, our home life, our role as father or mother or child, etc.

Let me urge you to examine your life and determine to begin the New Year with God! You are probably already involved to some extent in self-examination—do not forget the most important aspect of your life.

You may be a baptized believer who has drifted away from the Lord. If so, you need to renew your relationship with God. You should realize the condition of your life at present and the things that you have done and the things that you have failed to do in the teachings of God’s Word which are wrong. Then you should determine to do God’s will, being sorry for the sins of the past. When the sin is publicly known, a public confession is necessary; when the sin is private, confess privately your sins to God. Pray for forgiveness. Know that God has forgiven you and live your life for Him.

You may have been putting off your becoming a Christian. Now is the appropriate time to obey without delay. If you believe the Truth, repent of your sins and be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of your sins. The time is now (II Corinthians 6:2). There are many who are concerned about you and are praying for you to obey. Many look to you for an example; will you not set the right example for them?

Life is fragile and death is so certain. Begin this year with God.

Lester Kamp