PART of HIS STORY
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of the darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9)
3 New Year Targets (make that 4)
Have you noticed the concentration of advertisements preceding and following New Year’s Day? 3 major targets permeate the networks vying for your attention. Weight loss programs, exercise equipment /gym memberships, and stop smoking products flood the air times. Many people make resolutions addressing these very areas of life. A fresh start is offered as a new year is ushered in. Did you make any resolutions? A study in 2016 found that 41 percent of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, but by the end of the year only 9 percent claimed success in keeping their resolutions. Studies also show that for a new habit to be established it takes about 21 days to solidify that change. For this new habit to continue to be nurtured the pain to resume one’s previous lifestyle must be greater than the pain experienced to change.
What about that 4th new year target? I would suggest that we all prayerfully examine our own spiritual life and relationship with God. Where do we place God in our daily lives? Is He and His Word our spare tire or our steering wheel? We know God’s eternal love for us as we celebrate the incarnation of Jesus on Christmas. God extends His Spirit to us producing faith. Our first response is worship. Let us seek God’s kingdom first as we embark on 2023 knowing that He goes before us. We are Part of His Story no matter the year, month, or day. Our human flesh is frail. We call on the Lord for strength as we answer His Call to gather in worship, study His Word, and pray.
