As one year is wrapping up (no pun intended, :D) and a new year is approaching, it is common for our thoughts to reflect on what happened in the last year and focus our thoughts ahead. I would like to present to you a few challenges to think about and act upon before the year is over and a few to practice in the new year.

A Question

Someone once asked me, “If you could accomplish one thing over the next five years that you believe would be one of the greatest accomplishments in your life, what would it be?” I would like to ask that question to you in relation to your spiritual growth. Over the next five years, what is one thing you would like to see happen in regards to your spiritual walk that you would be ecstatic about?

For my own life, I would be exuberant about consistently waking up early every morning and spending time with Jesus as I know I get the most from my devotional time when it occurs before my day begins. Consider writing down one or two things regarding your relationship with Jesus that you desire to see happen.

Now think of a person who can hold you accountable and would check in with you on a regular basis over the next year regarding the items you listed. Ask this person to pray these things for you this year. Put a reminder in your calendar quarterly to reflect on what you wrote down.

Are there other ways you can be challenged spiritually this new year? If you like to journal, journal about these things.

Reflecting on God’s Grace in 2017

Think for a moment on this past year and recall ways in which the Lord has ministered to you. This may look like an encouragement, a blessing, sense of peace, extension of grace shown you, etc. I can recall a moment when two songs came on over Christian radio that I needed to hear in that moment and I knew clearly as I was driving home that God was ministering to me then. Encouragement from other people regarding my spiritual walk has been an additional way the Lord has ministered to me. List instances in which the Lord has ministered to you. Praise the Lord and thank Him.

“When my heart was grieved

and my spirit embittered,

I was senseless and ignorant;

I was a brute beast before you.

Yet I am always with you;

you hold me by my right hand.

You guide me with your counsel,

and afterward you will take me into glory.”

Psalm 73: 21-24

Reconciling Relationships

Regarding our relationships with people, is there someone you could reconcile with? God encourages and exhorts us to do what we can on our part to clear the divisions we have with others. Ask this person to coffee, send them a card or an alternate kind gesture that works for you and that person(s).

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18

“So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24

Showing Kindness to the Hurting

List 2-3 people in your life who you know are going through a valley including struggles with mental health, hurt or other difficult life situation to whom you can show Christ’s love and kindness. Go and follow through with these people.

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

Closing Thoughts

I believe as we reflect on our relationship with Christ, are reminded of His goodness and as we work to make the relationships in our life ones of life and ones that bear much fruit, we are bringing God’s kingdom to earth and the people we know.

I am encouraged by Philippians 1:6 – “Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” The Lord promises to continue the good work he started in us.

Spend quality time with Jesus daily this year. Pray. Ask the Lord to continue molding and shaping you into His likeness.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23

Happy New Year everyone!