'Resolutions that Count in 2023'

to continue to grow in you: care of someone, service to someone, encouragement, teaching, gratitude, reading the Bible or praying more, etc.? Is there a sin or distraction that God wants to take out of your life: too much time spent on videos or hobbies, anger at someone, marital unfaithfulness in mind or actions, unforgiveness toward someone, resentment, etc.? Pray about it and commit to do what He is directing you to address. 

The best way to find out God’s will for you is through Scripture. If you have never read through the entire New Testament, this is the year to do so. You will grow in your knowledge of Jesus and His teachings. You will read how to practically live out your faith in Christ. You will also read how other early Christians lived and were transformed.

 Let’s look at the example of reading the Bible more. Pray for God’s guidance on how to accomplish each part of the plan.

1.    Motivation – I will know more Scripture and get closer to God. I will have read through the New Testament in one year.

2.    Plan – Get a 5X5X5 New Testament reading schedule by clicking on the link or from the Welcome Center at church. Set a time and place to do each day’s reading.

3.    Encouragement - Ask someone to do it with you so that you can encourage each other.

4.    Social Plan – Text each other daily when you have accomplished that day’s reading. Get together weekly to talk about what you learned. 

5.    Reminders – Put a Scripture verse on your mirror, like “Your Word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105) Put your Bible and schedule on the breakfast table so you see it first thing in the morning. 

6.    Reward yourself - Have a nice lunch with your friend every two weeks as a celebration.

 Plug in whatever God wants to do in your life, then do your part as He does His part. This could be the best year ever in your growth as a Christian.

 Blessings in 2023,

Jonathan