For me, I am hoping to revive the usefulness of this blog. I will make more regular contributions to engage better Biblical instruction and to encourage building faith. I hope you will join me more often. Here is the first post for the new 2019.
It will soon be the beginning of 2019 and New Year’s resolutions will emerge. From losing weight, finding healthy solutions, less screen time or more family time and better organizing skills, the selection will vary based on the specific person making it – to accomplish the goals they feel need to be addressed. It’s a good thing to reassess our present and to redirect our attentions to making good on the changes we need.
As Christians, there are many things specific to our “person” as a disciple of Jesus that we should always reassess and redirect. “Examine yourselves” was Paul’s admonition to the Corinthians in both the first (11:28) and in the second letters (13:5). It is an ongoing process that should happen in communion and throughout life. The first of the year is equally a great time to do the same – and to determine how better we can serve the Lord.
So today, reflect on what in 2018 was the challenge you faced and what you can do better in 2019. None of us have reached a sublime place of perfection – we just need to press on to it (Philippians 3:12-14). Acknowledging our shortcomings is the first step to “press on to maturity” (Hebrews 6:1) and while it can be discouraging, it will empower the result of “hold[ing] true to what we have attained” (Philippians 3:16).
So, let me empower you to see….
Attendance is necessary to your spiritual growth. “Not forsaking our own assembling together” (Hebrews 10:25) is a negative statement to bring the positive results of encouraging each other. Whether it is a Sunday or Wednesday night, if you are alone when you come – you will be joined by the family in praising God and studying His word. If you are coming with your own family when you come – you model a powerful example for your children who learn by your actions that you “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). So, put aside the reasons you give yourself for not assembling on these days because it only hinders the stronger Christian you can become – and the stronger Christians you can make by your example.
Get involved. Special edifying and evangelistic events happen all year long from careful planning to make these events accessible and useful to you – but primarily to glorify God. Get involved in these works to help us glorify God. Come to the singing – even if you think you don’t sing well – because your heart will sing praise that lifts your spirit. Come to the gospel meetings – even if you think it’s so busy for you on Monday and Tuesday nights – because you will be energized by preaching from different speakers who will say the same truths you have always heard in a new, different way. VBS? You don’t have to teach but you can recruit! Youth Lectures? You don’t have to be underage but the preaching of truth among the faces of tomorrow can enliven hope in your soul. And talk to Adam Bohanan today – we need you to teach just one class for 12 weeks this year so that another brother and sister with whom you share in this fellowship won’t have to teach 24, 36 or in some cases, all year round. Get involved and have a share in the burden to make it even for all.
And, read your Bible. When I was young, this meant pulling my NASB Bible out, turning pages and reading silently in my room – trying to stave off sleepiness. This year, join me in reading through the New Testament in chronological order. You can keep up by using any BIBLE app in your phone or computer and listening to your reading as you drive (or using the CDs or Cassette Tapes of earlier decades). Each Sunday in 2019, when I am preaching, one of my lessons will come from the previous week’s Bible reading. If a daily reading seems too much for you, there are two different 5 days a week reading plans available as well on the member table (one while Bible reading and one New Testament only). Also, you can follow us on Twitter (@woodlandscoc with the hashtag #wcocbiblereading19) and find the reading assignment each day posted as a reminder.
Last, get close to God. Think of how you would use these terms in a personal relationship. How would you “get closer” with your spouse, your children, or your best friends? You would spend time with them. You would engage in activities with them. You would talk to them. And you would listen to them. And on the appropriate times you would thank them and tell them that you love them. Right? So, to get close to God in 2019, spend time with Him in worship alone; engage in worship activities with His people often; talk to Him in prayer. Listen to Him in His word. And every time you think it, tell Him of your gratitude and your love for all that He is – and I am sure – you will get close to God.
Set out strong in 2019 so you can finish strong.