As we enter the threshold of a new year, we are filled with anticipation, hope, and perhaps a bit of apprehension.

Life is unpredictable, and the journey ahead is often marked by challenges and uncertainties. However, as followers of Christ, we can enter this new season with confidence and joy, drawing strength from the words of Jesus. In three distinct moments of His ministry, Jesus said, “Be of good cheer!” These words provide us with a framework for embracing the new year with faith, courage, and hope.

1. Cheer for Forgiveness – Matthew 9:2

“Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, ‘Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.'”

The first cheer is for forgiveness. In this passage, Jesus speaks directly to the heart of humanity’s greatest need—the need for reconciliation with God. The paralytic came for physical healing, but Jesus addressed his spiritual condition first.

As we begin the new year, we must embrace the assurance of God’s forgiveness. No matter the mistakes or failures of the past year, the blood of Jesus cleanses us and gives us a fresh start. This truth should fill our hearts with cheer and empower us to move forward unburdened by guilt or shame. Let this be a year of living in the freedom that forgiveness brings.

2. Cheer for His Presence – Matthew 14:27

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.'”

The second cheer is for His presence. This encouragement was spoken to the disciples in the middle of a storm, as they struggled against the wind and waves. When Jesus walked on the water and approached their boat, His presence calmed their fears.

Life’s storms are inevitable, and the new year will likely bring its share of trials. Yet, we can face them with courage because Jesus is with us. His presence transforms fear into faith and despair into hope. Let this be a year of drawing closer to Him, trusting that His presence will guide and sustain us no matter what lies ahead.

3. Cheer for Victory – John 16:33

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

The third cheer is for victory. Jesus acknowledged the reality of tribulation in this world but declared His ultimate triumph over it. His victory over sin, death, and the powers of darkness is our victory as well.

As we step into 2025, we do so not with blind optimism but with confident faith. Whatever challenges or adversities come our way, we can face them knowing that Jesus has already secured the ultimate victory. Let this be a year of living as overcomers, walking in the power and authority that Christ has given us.

As we enter this new year, let us hold fast to the words of Jesus and take heart:

1. Be of good cheer for forgiveness – We are forgiven and made new in Christ.
2. Be of good cheer for His presence – We are never alone, even in the storms.
3. Be of good cheer for victory – We are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.

With these three cheers, we can step boldly into the future, confident that the God who was faithful yesterday will be faithful today and tomorrow. Let us rejoice and embrace this new year with hearts full of cheer, for the Lord is with us!