THREE THINGS TO DO DIFFERENTLY
In contemplating the potential for transformation in the year 2016, it is essential to recognize that the scope of change is not confined to a mere trio of suggestions. These three recommendations serve as a catalyst to inspire both your heart and mind, highlighting the reality that there are indeed various avenues for improvement and innovation. The divine entity we worship is one that cherishes the concept of newness, as evidenced in Romans 6:4, which articulates the notion of walking in a renewed life following the resurrection of Christ. This emphasis on newness is further reflected in the natural order of the world, where cycles of seedtime and harvest, as well as the changing of seasons, underscore the importance of renewal and transformation in our lives.
The necessity of newness is evident in the rhythm of day and night, which provides a vital structure for our existence.
Imagine a world devoid of this cyclical pattern; the absence of night would lead to dire consequences for many, as the human experience requires periods of rest and rejuvenation. Each day, week, month, and year culminates in an ending that paves the way for new beginnings, allowing us to embrace the opportunities that come with a fresh start. As we approach the conclusion of another year, it is imperative to acknowledge the significance of newness, which empowers us to embark on different paths and initiate change. This concept of newness is not merely a transition; it is an invitation to begin anew, to harness the potential for growth and transformation that lies ahead.
In Psalm 90, verse 12, the scripture implores us to recognize the finite nature of our days, urging us to seek wisdom through this awareness. The King James Version articulates this as a call to apply our hearts to wisdom, suggesting that by acknowledging the limited time we have, we open ourselves to the possibility of new beginnings. This notion of new beginnings is intrinsically linked to the acquisition of wisdom, which encourages us to adopt improved methods in various aspects of our lives. As we approach the new year, it is essential to shed outdated practices and embrace fresh perspectives, particularly in critical areas such as health and relationships. The arrival of a new year serves as a pivotal moment for reflection and reassessment, prompting us to consider how we can enhance our lives moving forward.
As we transition into 2016, it is vital to cultivate an attitude of gratitude, which can significantly transform our outlook and interactions. This practice is not merely a suggestion but a fundamental shift that can influence various dimensions of our lives, including our marriages and careers. While I have highlighted three key areas for improvement, it is important for each individual to personalize this journey by identifying additional aspects they wish to change. Embracing a new mindset and actively seeking to implement these changes will be crucial for achieving success and fulfillment in the coming year. By prioritizing gratitude and a willingness to adapt, we can lay a strong foundation for a prosperous and meaningful year ahead.
There exists a fundamental mindset that influences all other perspectives we adopt as human beings, known as the attitude of gratitude. When one consciously chooses to embrace this attitude, it has a profound impact on the surrounding environment and circumstances. This practice not only revitalizes joy within the heart but also rekindles hope, as it alters one’s perception of the world. By actively engaging in gratitude, individuals begin to recognize the beauty and positivity that exists around them, which can lead to a transformative experience. It is crucial to understand that attitude holds greater significance than mere facts. While many individuals may naturally gravitate towards pragmatism and the reliance on factual information, it is the attitude that ultimately shapes our experiences and interactions.
To further illustrate this point, I would like to reference a passage from scripture that underscores the importance of attitude. In Habakkuk Chapter 3, verses 17 to 19, we are reminded that while we await divine intervention in our lives, we must take responsibility for our own attitudes. It is essential to recognize that God will not alter our attitudes for us; rather, we are called to embrace a new way of living. As we navigate challenges in various aspects of our lives—be it in relationships, health, or career paths—it is imperative that we focus on cultivating a positive attitude. This proactive approach allows us to align our actions with our aspirations, fostering an environment where growth and improvement can flourish.
The prophet Habakkuk presents a profound reflection on the nature of adversity and the human response to it. He articulates a scenario where the fig tree does not bear fruit, the vines are barren, and the olive harvest fails, indicating a complete lack of sustenance and prosperity. These observations are not mere hypotheticals; they represent tangible realities of hardship and failure, particularly in the context of his agricultural and business endeavors. The mention of the flock being absent from the fold further emphasizes the extent of his losses, suggesting that both his agricultural and livestock enterprises have encountered significant setbacks. Despite these stark realities, Habakkuk asserts a remarkable declaration of faith, stating that he will rejoice in the God of his salvation. This highlights a critical distinction between the facts of his circumstances and the attitude he chooses to adopt in response to them.
In this context, Habakkuk’s message serves as a powerful reminder that one’s attitude can transcend the weight of factual circumstances. While the challenges he faced in 2015 may not have changed, the onset of a new year presents an opportunity for introspection regarding one’s perspective on these challenges. It prompts individuals to consider how their attitudes can influence their experiences, even when external situations remain constant. The essence of Habakkuk’s declaration lies in the understanding that a positive attitude can be a catalyst for change, suggesting that perhaps divine intervention awaits a shift in one’s mindset. Thus, the prophet’s example encourages a proactive approach to adversity, emphasizing that while facts may be immutable, one’s attitude can foster resilience and hope in the face of difficulties.
The prophet expressed a profound commitment to joy, declaring that despite the circumstances surrounding him, his heart of gratitude would remain steadfast. This declaration emphasizes a conscious choice to rejoice in the Lord, who is recognized as the source of strength and salvation. The imagery of being granted the agility of a deer symbolizes not only resilience but also the ability to navigate life’s challenges with grace. The prophet’s intention to convey this message through music, specifically for the chief musician with string instruments, highlights the transformative power of worship and the importance of expressing one’s emotions through song. This shift in attitude reflects a deeper understanding of faith, where joy is not contingent upon external factors but is rooted in a relationship with the divine.
In the New Testament, a similar theme of gratitude is illustrated in the account of Jesus healing ten lepers, as recorded in Luke chapter 17. Jesus instructed them to present themselves to the priests, a directive that required an act of faith. As they obeyed, they experienced healing, yet only one returned to express gratitude. This narrative underscores the significance of recognizing and celebrating the blessings one receives, as well as the tendency to overlook them. The call to maintain an attitude of gratitude is essential, as it fosters a joyful life and encourages the sharing of testimonies. By taking responsibility for one’s life and acknowledging the positive experiences, individuals can cultivate a deeper appreciation for their blessings, rather than attributing their circumstances to external factors.
To foster a genuine attitude of gratitude, one must commit to taking full responsibility for their life, much like Joseph did in his circumstances. Joseph’s ability to avoid despair, even while imprisoned, is exemplified by his inquiry to the butler and baker about their sadness. The butler, in response, could have pointed out the absurdity of their situation, questioning why they should feel anything but sorrow in a prison rather than a luxurious establishment. However, Joseph’s perspective was different; he chose to take ownership of his life and circumstances. Many individuals struggle to express gratitude because they attribute their setbacks to others, believing that if it weren’t for certain individuals, they would be in a better position. This mindset can lead to a cycle of negativity, as focusing solely on grievances can obscure any reasons for thankfulness.
Moreover, Joseph’s reflections on his past, including his relationships with his brothers and his father’s affection, could have easily led him to a place of bitterness. Yet, he made a conscious decision to shift his focus away from these grievances and instead recognize the blessings in his life, despite the challenges he faced. By choosing to acknowledge God’s faithfulness amid adversity, one can cultivate a spirit of gratitude. It is essential to understand that one cannot simultaneously make excuses and progress; a choice must be made. Excuses for a lack of gratitude can lead one down a detrimental path, diverting attention from the positive aspects of life. Therefore, it is crucial to reflect on what holds you back from gratitude and to engage with those around you to explore the reasons behind your feelings.
In the year 2016, I strongly recommend that you adopt a different approach by committing to a covenantal relationship with God. This principle is not merely a suggestion but should be ingrained in the culture of our church community. It is essential for individuals within the congregation to actively seek God’s will for their lives and to adhere to His guidance. Reflecting on the decisions made throughout 2015, one may find a mix of outcomes, both positive and negative. However, it is crucial to recognize whether these choices were influenced by divine instruction or if they were made independently. Living as a child of God necessitates a commitment to humility and obedience, as these are foundational elements of a covenantal relationship with the Almighty.
A covenant typically involves an agreement between two parties, often with one possessing greater authority than the other. In our relationship with God, it is He who initiates this covenant, expressing His desire to connect with us. To honor this divine invitation, we must humble ourselves before Him, acknowledging that while He does not require our presence, we are entirely dependent on His grace and guidance. God seeks to be the primary navigator of our lives, rather than a secondary influence. As articulated in James Chapter 4, verse 7, humility is the antidote to worldly distractions. By submitting to God, resisting temptation, and drawing closer to Him, we can purify our hearts and align our lives with His divine purpose.
In the pursuit of spiritual growth, it is essential to transition from mere lamentation to a deeper understanding of joy and humility. The scriptures emphasize the importance of humbling oneself before the Lord, promising that such humility will lead to divine elevation. The biblical principle that God opposes the proud while extending grace to the humble serves as a reminder that true exaltation comes from submission to His will. As we reflect on the year ahead, it is crucial to recognize that everything we possess is a gift from God, and we must be prepared to respond to His call. For some, this may involve a significant change in direction, requiring a departure from stubbornness and a willingness to embrace a covenantal relationship with God.
To walk in covenant with the Almighty necessitates a comprehensive commitment to His guidance in all aspects of life.
Many individuals tend to compartmentalize their lives, allowing God to influence certain areas, such as career choices, while resisting His authority in others, like relationships or finances. This selective obedience can hinder spiritual growth and limit the blessings that God desires to bestow. In 2016, it is imperative to evaluate our decision-making processes through the lens of scripture, asking ourselves whether the Bible provides insight into our choices. By fostering a lifestyle of obedience and honoring God’s directives in every facet of our lives, we can cultivate a more profound and fulfilling relationship with Him. Encourage those around you to embrace this journey of covenant living, emphasizing the importance of obedience and striving for improvement in the year to come.
This morning, I would like to emphasize a crucial change that I have decided to implement in my life: addressing the issue of bitterness. Research indicates that our emotional breakdowns are often linked to our interactions with others. While it is relatively easy to walk away from a malfunctioning vehicle, it is far more challenging to disengage from a deteriorating relationship. The truth is that inanimate objects do not inflict the same level of pain as our fellow human beings. The most profound suffering we experience in life typically originates from other individuals. Therefore, it is essential for each of us to make a conscious decision, as I did in 2016, to confront bitterness head-on and to strive for improvement in our interpersonal relationships.
As we approach the new year, I urge you to manage your relationships with greater care and intention. This involves seeking to understand, accept, and tolerate others in the same way that God does. Reflect on the challenges you may have faced in this area throughout the year that is concluding. As we transition into 2016, it is vital to embrace the principles of understanding and acceptance, mirroring the divine mercy that God extends to us. God is often referred to as the God of peace, a title that reflects His merciful nature. If He were to hold grievances against each of us, true peace would be unattainable. Instead, He assures us that our transgressions are separated from us as far as the east is from the west, offering forgiveness freely. This divine act of mercy is what allows Him to maintain a heart filled with peace at all times.
As we enter the year 2016, it is essential to embrace a mindset of advanced forgiveness. This means approaching your spouse with a heart full of grace, declaring that all the mistakes made in the past year are forgiven. By doing so, you are choosing to walk in peace, much like the divine example set by God. This act of forgiveness is not merely a passive acceptance of wrongs; rather, it is an active decision to foster a loving environment where both partners can thrive. It is important to understand that true transformation in relationships cannot be achieved through threats or coercion, but rather through the power of love. Love creates the necessary atmosphere for genuine change, allowing individuals to grow and evolve in a supportive setting.
It is crucial to recognize that God embodies love and peace, and nothing we do can surprise Him. His capacity to forgive is boundless, and through this forgiveness, He invites us to experience a deeper relationship with Him, one that leads to obedience and transformation. For those who may feel anxious about their partner’s behavior, it is vital to remember that love can accommodate imperfections without indulging them.
God’s message is clear: He welcomes us as we are, without rejection.
As we strive for peace in our lives, particularly in 2016, we must elevate our approach to managing relationships. By doing so, we can achieve a harmonious existence, leading to a balanced life and fostering an atmosphere of tranquility and understanding.