by Robin Roady - Children's Ministry Coordinator
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Joshua 1:8
This time of year is famous for the question we are all asked, “What is your New Year’s resolution or New Year’s goal for 2023”? Many will say “lose weight”, “exercise more”, “travel more”, or maybe “spend less money." While these goals are not bad in any way, what about our spiritual goals? What about goals to serve in an area of my church, minster to a single mother or senior citizen who could use a friend, send encouragement notes to those around me who are struggling, have a more intentional prayer life, or what about spend more time in God’s Word?
Life is busy! We wake up each morning and then our heads hit the pillow at night and this goes on for days and days. Next thing we know, we haven’t spent time in God’s Word in days, weeks, months or maybe years. We wonder why we are exhausted, confused, worried, and lost on what path we should be taking in our lives. Jesus tells us to come to Him and He will give us rest but we must be intentional about going to Him, spending time in His word daily and talking to Him in prayer. A few of my favorite verses with truths about God’s Word are:
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” Joshua 1:8
Satan will do everything he can to keep us from opening our Bibles. He knows his lies cannot stand against the truth of God’s Word. You know what is exciting? We can overcome! God hasn’t left us. He hasn’t walked away from us. He is here, waiting, for us to turn back to Him and allow His Word to penetrate our hearts and move us towards a life of rest and peace in Him.
So, pick up that Bible and dust it off. Start with praying and asking God to give you a passion for His Word. Start with reading just a chapter a day or even a few verses and mediate on those verses throughout the day. Grab a pen and notecard and write that encouraging note to someone who needs to hear how important they are to you and to God. Maybe start writing down your prayer needs, prayer requests for others and see how God will answer your petitions.
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” Prov. 30:5
Happy New Year!
Robin