It’s January; the beginning of the new year. A time many think about making a new start. A time of year that tends to draw us to look at new goals. A time of the year that slows down for reflection. A new year for new goals and a chance to do better than last year.

I am not one to normally use January 1^st as a time for restarting things in my life. However, having just served on the Nominating Committee, I have had time to look forward and to also review the past year. Not only at church, but with myself as well. Where am I headed; where does God want me to put my focus?

I have felt that I perhaps have failed in many parts of my life. It causes me much grief to look back to see how I may have hurt others, to see how I may have moved forward before God was calling me, to see how I made so many selfish choices. I have let those things stall me. I have let Satan throw them into my thoughts time and time again, only to shrink back from moving where I feel God is calling me to go. I have let Satan distract me with things that wasted my time. I have let others steer me into much busywork (I hate to say no) instead of following the things that I feel God has placed on my heart to do or to share.

I know that I cannot let Satan win at this battle. I need to trust that God is leading and step forward. I need to shout at Satan, “Get back! Jesus died for me. He died to save me from my sins. He died that I might be forgiven… and given a new start.” Maybe you, too, feel that calling, yet are unsure about stepping forward. Maybe it’s time?

You will see some changes around The Adventist Home Educator. They may come on slowly, as I learn how to incorporate these new ideas within our home schedule and gain the skills to make some of the ideas become realities. I pray that you are patient with the upcoming changes, with the challenges I will face and with the mistakes I am sure to make. However, I pray that you will be blessed by the sharing to come.

So, I guess for me, this is a new start. A new start to put on my Christian Armor (Ephesians 6) and humbly, yet boldly step forward. I would love your encouragement and your prayers for me personally and for the ministry of The Adventist Home Educator.

Be sure to check out our Instagram account, our Pinterest account, sign up to follow our blog and our newsletter so you can be sure to see the new things coming your way. Feel free to share this with your homeschooling friends and family. Also young families may be encouraged with thoughts shared here. We are thankful for those that help us share and encourage Adventist families.

Warmly, ~Melissa, The Adventist Home Educator