A new year. A new house or location. A new relationship. Or in church, consideration of building a new edifice or remodeling or downsizing a current one. These are all wonderful opportunities to reflect on the meaning of the word new. 

Not long ago, I felt impelled to pray about several things in my life related to what the right sense of new might be. I wanted to discern an elevated concept of new and of the natural good that unfolds from true spiritual newness. Studying the teachings of Christian Science with this goal in mind, I began to see how Christ Jesus differentiated between mere change and meaningful—spiritual—newness. I’ve learned that this newness arises from a transformation in consciousness rather than a rearrangement of circumstances, the acquisition of material things, or a mere pivot in approach that excludes divine inspiration.

Recently, I had to think wisely about a new business opportunity that emerged unexpectedly. I was so dazzled by its potential that it became an almost obsessive focus for many days. It was exciting, but I remained unclear about its rightness. I knew I needed to pray for guidance from God, divine Mind.