I know that technically the new year begins on January 1, but for most people major change in lifestyle takes place the day school starts every year.  It has an impact on business, family, economics, and our schedules.

People are looking for a fresh start.  This is true whether you have kids in school or not.  It becomes part of the environment.  How can we make the most of it?

1. Make sure your priorities are in the proper order.  This is a time when a lot of good things can get in the way of that which is important.  There is a lot to do so that makes your time in God’s Word and your time in prayer more critical.  Spending time with Him will make you more productive.
2. Get on a schedule and seek to be more disciplined.  There are all types of people and causes that are seeking to set your agenda.  Your use of time and talent is important to you and those around you.
3. Look for ways to minister to other people.  This is a time of challenge and pressure.  There are many ways that we can invest in people and show them we care.
4. See it as a time of opportunity.  It is a fresh start and there are so many ways that you can make a difference in the lives of people.  They are constantly looking for answers and we must remember that we have the answer in Jesus Christ.