“Happy New Year!” has never sounded so good before and Old Man 2020 leaving us seems like it couldn’t come fast enough. Most of us are happy to drop 2020 into the dumpster of experience; we eagerly anticipate the promise of something better in 2021.
Usually, I’m not one to make resolutions. I can have fear of failure. However, I am so excited about the idea of a fresh start this year, that I’m at least going to put some goals in place and I encourage you to do the same. Here is a great goal given by the Apostle Paul:
“But the goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” — 1 Timothy 1:5
I pray that the instruction we let into our own lives, and that which we give to others this year, may come from a pure heart and a good conscience. I pray that it will lead us into a deeper love for Jesus and for others. I can’t think of anything more important for us. May the goals we set lead to loving more in 2021.
Yes, it’s wise to exercise and eat right — so set goals to help you stay physically well. Be mindful of your families and do whatever it takes to nurture them in love. Be a good steward with the money God provides so you can be generous. Manage your time faithfully, whether it’s free time, family time, or working for someone else. Then you’ll be able to accomplish more for love.
These are all good things, but really, they are simply aids to what’s better. The most important goal of our lives ought to be to read God’s Word more and pray more. These are the two things that lead to genuinely loving more.
“And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” — Colossians 3:14
More than ever before, may the love of Jesus overflow from all us in 2021! In turn, it will make this the Happiest New Year of all.
Loving with you because of Him!
Posted in A Word from the Pastor