PEOPLE OFTEN MARK the new year by setting goals and making resolutions to start fresh. The year change can also be a time of spiritual newness. Second Corinthians 5:17 (The Living Bible) says, “When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!” You might wonder how this can happen.

John 1:12 (New King James Version) says, “But as many as received [Jesus], to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name.”

You receive Jesus by praying a simple prayer and inviting Him into your heart. When you ask Jesus to be Lord of your life, you become God’s child and a new person on the inside.

Would you like to receive Jesus and become a brand-new person? If so, pray this prayer from your heart.

God, I come to You in Jesus’ Name. I want to live right, but I can’t do it on my own. When I try to do better, it doesn’t work. I need a Savior. The Bible says, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9 New Living Translation). I believe in my heart that You raised Jesus from the dead. And I openly declare that I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. According to Your Word, I am saved. Thank You for making me brand new on the inside. Thank You for giving me a new life!