There was a time in our history when people measured time with the phases of the moon. Since the moon waxes and wanes within a 30-day period, that time was called a “moon”. Storytellers in old westerns will begin their yarns with, “Many moons ago…” Both the English and German words for month are based on that lovely light in the evening sky. Everyone knows that the first month of a marriage is sweet like honey. That’s why we call that wonderful time the honey-moon.

This is the honeymoon time of the new year. Two weeks into 2022, we’re inclined to entertain new possibilities for the months (moons) ahead and try for better living. Maybe you’ve decided to finish some home projects that have languished in the half-finished doldrums. Maybe you started a new book or Bible reading program. Maybe you’ve decided to form some new habits and get healthy. January is the month where so many people decide to make changes with an air of optimism.

In this time of hopeful possibility, God is ready for you to take some steps toward Him. Here are just a few times in scripture that reassure us that God longs for us to return to Him.

The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

Psalm 145:18, ESV

Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord.

Jeremiah 29:12-14, ESV

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

Psalm 34:18, ESV

If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Colossians 3:1-2, ESV

These passages reveal God’s heart for you. He wants your heart to turn back toward Him at any time of the year. The great thing about a spiritual recommitment is that this kind of change has implications for both life here and life beyond. When fad diets lose their zing and exercise gadgets gather dust, a relationship with God only grows brighter with time.

Prayer… scripture… worship… fellowship… these are the core areas where God will be found. Let’s take advantage of the new “moon” we find ourselves in and seek Him. The loving embrace He sends your way will help get you through whatever the rest of this year holds!