Aligning priorities for growth in 2017
Every New Year, the desire to change often brings resolutions, commitments and gym memberships. I believe that if we are looking for lasting change these are great steps to take in order to move forward with the future that you desire for yourself. Of course, the simple disciplines of Scripture intake and communication with God, along with fellowship are all important and if not a part of your lifestyle, should be considered. With that I would like to offer a few suggestions on how to align your hearts with the Word of God so that our goals and priorities are ultimately fulfilling and long-lasting.
1. Ask God about your future. Proverbs 29:18. Many of us know the principles for Godly living and yet are baffled at the idea of God’s purposes for our lives. God knows what is in your heart and it is on us to discover what is in His heart for us. Generally, the calling of God is not about us, but about being a light and servant to those around us. Ask God who knows all things to reveal to you the things He is calling you to, and then take a leap of faith and start doing something.
2. Break bad habits. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Jesus paid the price for us to live a lifestyle free from destructive habits and patterns of thinking. 1 Corinthians 2:16 says, “but we have the mind of Christ.” With that we must begin to process our life through a renewed min and renewed actions. When we recognize that I am actively participating in speech or actions that hinder my walk with Christ or is hindering others, I must take action. First, seek God’s Word on the subject and begin to declare the truth of Scripture over that area. Seek an advocate that will help you walk into new levels of freedom.
3. Discover your next area of growth. Ephesians 4:14-16. We are all maturing in our relationship with Jesus and we should pursue personal growth. So much focus is put on ridding ourselves of sin (a requirement of the believer), that we forget to become something more than just “sin-free”. We must begin to seek God about where we need to mature, and generally these are areas are ones that we have yet to see. When we notice an area that needs maturing, we should run to the Cross, confess, repent, and then build upon that clean slate and become more Christ-like in it.
4. Get creative in serving. Romans 7:6. God calls us to be servants and we are to serve in ways that honor Him and build those around us. Many times we don’t see those who need service and being willing to look at things from a new perspective will open new doors. Many people around us need the touch of Christ, and we must find ways to try and reveal that love through relevant and effective means. This will require a dependence on the Holy Spirit and a willingness to take some risks.
I believe that there is a door opening in our region for each of us that call on the Name and the Blood of Christ to enter the greatest year ever. Let us hold fast our confession of faith, that we believe in Christ and His work in us and begin to grow into the calling, character and lifestyle that Jesus died to give us the freedom to enter into.
Chris Bassett is the Senior Leader at Hidden Valley Worship Center. Hvwc.com