What's Next

Happy New Year!  I am expecting God to do great things in 2013 and I pray you are too.  Entering into this new year, should involve more than just reflecting on the past and promising to do better in the future.  To really make a difference you have to commit to more than just making a few "new year's resolutions."  You have to be ready and willing to address four areas in your life that will empower you to change where you are to where God wants you to be. 

• Opportunity --Ephesians 5:15-17 tells us we are to be very careful how we live--not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.  As we look around it is very apparent that we live in a time where "evil"  is ever present.  To make the most of every opportunity, there are three areas you should examine. 

• A deeper walk with God -- begin today to make definite plans to set aside time for God. Don't say "I'll start tomorrow."  Do it today.
• Relationships need to be healed -- This begins with extending forgiveness even before you are asked.  You take the initiative to forgive and restore your relationships that are damaged.  Ask God to show you specific ways you can demonstrate love for others.
• Service to God and man -- Opportunities for service are unlimited.  Pray for God to open your eyes, heart, and wallet so you can see the hurting people around you and make a difference.

• Commitment -- Commitment isn't like a "new year's resolution."  Commitment begins with a focus on God not everything else such as finances, health, career, etc.  Although these are important, they must be approached from God's point of view.   Focus on God first and all the other stuff tends to fall into place.

• Change -- To change something means to alter or make it different and it is a process that starts on the inside of you.  Although God's principles never change, His methods do.  The first change you should make should be a "spiritual" change that will cause you to be more like Jesus.

• Vision -- The word "vision" literally means the ability to see things to come, to have foresight, or the power to perceive the invisible.  Without the ability to visualize worthy goals and how they can be realized, very little will be achieved.  When it comes to the Lord's work we need an elevated vision of what God is wanting to do. 

What are your plans for the new year?  Are you ready to make 2013 the best year yet?  You can when you take advantage of the opportunities God presents to you, and make a commitment  to focus on Him in every area of your life.  Then you must be willing to make the necessary changes God wants you to make and endeavor to allow God to keep His vision before you.  When you do that, 2013 is going to be great!