As I mentioned in Sunday's service, the New Year is a great time for an introspective look at one's self. But, it's not enough to just look back, the apostle Paul encouraged us to "press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me." (Phil. 3:12)
I'm also reminded by Nehemiah 10:28-31, specifically verse 29, that God's people made an oath, vowing to follow God. They went so far as to say that if they failed, they would accept the curse.
[They] entered into . . . an oath to walk in God's Law, . . . and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord our Lord (Nehemiah 10:29).
While our New Year's resolutions aren't always as serious as this, we should soberly consider our walk with the Lord and admit that any resolutions to follow God is not a casual, fleeting thought. We should consider our spiritual growth; and then, with the leading of the Holy Spirit, pursue our own set of personal declarations wholeheartedly.
In so doing, examine yourself. Acknowledge if you are growing in grace or simply going through the motions of "doing church." Then, consider these four areas and how they might help you be a self-feeding follower of the Lord Jesus in 2008.
1. Sunday Bible Study Participation
2. Worship Attendance
3. Discipleship Involvement
4. Corporate Prayer through PowerSource
Finally, act on your resolutions!
"Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." (James 4:17)
I look forward to seeing you Sunday.
--George
The preceding post was originally sent out Thursday, January 3rd, 2008 as a part of Brainerd Baptist's email newsletter (The BBC Mail). If you would like to sign up to receive future messages delivered directly to your inbox, click here and enter your email address.
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