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2019: Your Renewal & Transformation


The new year is a natural time of reflection, self-assessment, and goal-setting. What have we accomplished? What do we plan for the next 12 months? It is a valid and valuable exercise in the spiritual life of all Christians.
The New Year Marks a Great Time for New Beginnings. 

Paul’s letter to the Romans comes to mind today, both as a reminder to engage in self-assessment and to commit to renewal. Looking at the beginning of Romans 12 in reverse order, let’s start with reflection.

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. – Romans 12:3 (NIV)

Sober judgement does not mean being overly critical of oneself; instead, it’s about being realistic. What have you done in the past year with the gifts, talents, and graces God has given you? Have you done everything (anything?) you could to help others, grow in your faith, and strengthen your relationships with God and other people? Have you been a good steward? Have you given from your abundance?

I will be the first to admit that I have fallen short. How are you doing?

Upon reflection, we might feel a bit uncomfortable. That’s good! Through reflection and prayer, we just might hear the Holy Spirit in the silence, encouraging us to do more in the new year.

What will that look like for you? How you offer yourself as a living sacrifice? How will your mind be renewed to contribute to your spiritual growth and transformation?

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. – Romans 12:1-2
Pray. Make a Plan. Make 2019 Your Year to Serve and Grow.

If you haven’t done so, take a few minutes – today, right now! – to plan. Pray about it. Identify where you have fallen short and where you know you can do more because you can. God gave you the gifts to do it! And you have the Holy Spirit within you as the unfailing energy to help you along the way.

Blessings to you for an incredible, faith-filled 2019. May it be a time of renewal and transformation, service and growth as you continue your faith journey.

= = =

What is your plan for spiritual growth and service to God and people for 2019? Feel free to share to get the conversation started in the comments section. 

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