Evey year, with the calendar turning to January 1st, it symbolizes a fresh start for everyone. What happened in the past year is now gone. Now, we think about making adjustments and building habits over the next twelve months that will make us better people. As Christians, we long for more than self-improvement programs or resolutions of simply doing better. We desire true change that flows from the inside out.
So how do you get that change? That change ultimately comes from growing closer to Jesus everyday. In fact, the Bible highlights different ways you can resolve to grow nearer to Christ in the year ahead.
Read the Bible Daily
Every day you can grow in your faith by sending time in the Bible. Step up your Scripture reading plan with a challenging but realistic goal for each day. New Life actually has 5 different plans going on right now that will help you read the Bible daily. Check them out here. As you read, ask God to make known His Truth and transform you through what you read.
Worship in Community Every Week
To grow closer to Christ, being part of a community helps. Attending Church weekly and being part of a life group or Bible Study Discussion Groups are two great ways to do that. You are able to build friendship and be part of a great community of believers who are seeking to grow closer to Christ, just as you are. It can be a tremendous encouragement for you. To be part of a Group at New Life, click here.
Give Generously
When you give of your time, talents and treasures, do you give generously or do you give out of a sense of obligation? In 2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Paul says, “The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.” When we give to God our time, our gifts and talents and our financial treasure which He has blessed us with, we are able to see how God can do so much. And, it encourages us to grow and trust Him even more. If you would like to find ways you can serve this year, click here. If you would like to make a financial donation, click here.
Share Your Story
Everyone has a story. God has worked in our lives tremendously over the years. This year, resolve to intentionally share what only God could have done in your life during the past year. You can choose to share it to people in person, via social media or in small groups. There are a variety of ways you can share about God’s impact in your life, Choose this year to share about it and let these reminders of God’s work in your life be an inspiration that draws people and you closer to God. If you would like to hear faith stories from others, subscribe to The Third Chair Podcast, you can listen on Apple, Spotify, or Amazon.
Conclusion
With each new year, there is a new opportunity to resolve in your heart to pursue ways you can grow closer to Christ. It is more than just a task list, it can really realign your whole life’s direction toward deeper connection with Jesus and a more fulfilled life. What will you resolve to do this year?
If you would like to start reading the Bible daily this year, click here for 5 different reading plans.