Resolutions, turning over a new leaf and good intentions seem to be hollow efforts to improve one’s health or well-being for an upcoming year. Everyone knows that they are usually futile and little comes of them. There are, however, some common sense plans that a Christian can make for 2013.
Invite at least one person a week to church. There are many more people that do not go to church than those that attend. There is a possibility that no one ever showed enough concern to offer a simple invitation. It is the congregation’s responsibility to bring and multiple the numbers of those present. It is the pastor’s responsibility to offer a Bible based sermon of encouragement and conviction after the people arrive.
Share about God’s salvation to at least one person per week. How curious it is that people have no qualms discussing cult or Eastern beliefs and not Christianity. It must say something about any person’s relationship with God and their loyalty to Him.
Pray at least once a day and read the Bible at least once a day. These are so common sense and yet often ignored. A phone call or a letter read from a loved one is always appreciated. Can it be said that a believer has a love relationship with God by forgetting these two simple steps?
Trust God for personal finances and material needs. In a down economy family funds are stretched and stretched. However, God does promise to keep and sustain the believer. In appreciation, the believer is expected to give back one tenth of the paycheck. Giving to anyone is a good experience. In the right attitude, Toys-for-tots just feels good. When giving into the offering plate on Sunday should at a minimum offer the same pleasant feeling.
Put God first in all that one has and what one does. What if every believer paused to ask if this next statement or action would be approved by the Almighty God? It would curb harshness, rudeness, insensitivity, selfishness, and jealousy.
Let these not be resolutions that are quickly forgotten. Let these be a revolution in character and behavior. If not, how much control over self does anyone really have?
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