The Secret to Conquering 2020
We often look at the New Year as an opportunity to do, and be better. Sadly, many of our resolutions and goals fail shortly after we begin. But, there’s good news! God has a better way to experience change in your life. In this short video, Paul tells us the secret to success in the New Year.
Do you remember when you used to play ball as a kid? Sometimes when I’d mess things up, I’d ask for a “do-over”. You know, another chance to swing at the ball, and try to get it right. Well, something like that happens every January 1st. We all collectively get a “do-over,” another chance to do it right. And, if we had a tough year then we’re grateful to put it behind us - afterall,
It's a brand new year and we’re getting a “do-over.”
On that note, I'm wondering how many of us have made New Year's resolutions yet? Most of us use January 1st as a new beginning to make some changes in our lives. We might plan to lose weight, or do better at saving money, or call our parents more, read our Bible more, or break some stubborn habits. We make these resolutions every January 1st, right? Let me ask you, how did last year's New Year's resolutions work out for you?
If you're anything like me, you hate to fail, so much so that sometimes you just stop trying. Truthfully, that's not such a bad idea! I want to remind you of a well-known Scripture verse where the apostle Paul says, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)
Forget what’s behind, and reach toward what is ahead.
First, Paul says that he hasn’t arrived yet, and secondly, shares what he has learned so far. He’s learned to forget what was behind him. My friend, stop beating yourself up for not reaching your goals, for not accomplishing what you set out to do. “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1 (NASB)
Look my friends, if God isn't condemning you, why are you condemning yourself?
Paul says to press on towards your high calling. What is your high calling? Well, it's just to be the person God created you to be. God calls you to something that He knows you could never do on your own. God doesn't say, “Hey Paul, you belong to Me now. Go and make yourself into all that I've created you to be. Try hard to do your best. I'll check in on you from time to time to see how well you're doing.” Oh my goodness, thank heaven that’s not the case! Knowing that we are totally incapable of bringing that about, God says, “I will do it.”
See, God calls us to our high calling and then He says,
“The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NIV)
Did you hear that? He will do it. You ask, “Well, what's my role then? What do I do?” Well, only one thing, and that is to let Him! Let God do His thing. That's it. Friends, you will quickly begin to see things being brought about that God wants for you; that you want for yourself. Faithful is the One who calls you and He will do it.
Have a wonderful, happy New Year.
Each week, Paul sends out a letter to his subscribers containing personal and helpful truths designed to help you experience the beautiful truths of the New Covenant. Sign up here.