Great Expectations
It’s here, a new year; 365 days ahead of us that will bring a mixture of blessings, brokenness, some of the best, and possibly a few of the worst, moments ever experienced amidst our life adventures. These sentiments may not sound like wholehearted wishes for a Happy New Year, but stay with me; for more than wishing you a happy year, my deepest desire is that 2018 will be a year in which Truth, God’s Truth, establishes deep roots in each of our lives and, in turn, bears spiritual fruit. For deep spiritual roots enable us to experience great expectations regarding what’s to come. So, let’s get rooted….
- Spiritually ‘ready’ yourself for deepened roots.
How? Personally take hold of Biblical truth and don’t let go; no matter what! Settle in your heart that God loves you (Jeremiah 31:3), and wants a personal relationship with you (John 3:16). Tend to loose ends with God: confess your sins to Him (Romans 3:32), invite Him into your heart (Romans 10:13), receive the forgiveness He offers to you (2 Corinthians 5:17); take out the trash by eliminating from your life ongoing sin, unforgiveness, lifestyle apathy and unbelief (Joel 2:13). Ask God to reveal anything that may hinder you from experiencing His presence, peace, and promises.
- Spiritually ‘set’ yourself in a direction that nourishes deepened roots.
A healthy place to begin is by attending a Biblically grounded church. Explore what’s in your area via Google, asking others you respect, listening to a podcast; then take steps to attend Sunday services and weekly activities. These opportunities will strengthen and enrich you spiritually, relationally, emotionally, and personally. Great things often come as we step beyond our comfort zone.
- Spiritually ‘go’ intentionally pursue God.
Whether you’re a new Christian or a long-term believer, invest yourself in cultivating a personal relationship with God on a daily basis. Get a Bible in a translation you’re comfortable with; visit a Christian bookstore and explore devotional books containing God’s Word and ideas for practical application of Biblical truth. Set aside quiet moments daily to pause, read, and reflect on what you’ve read. And pray asking God to speak to your heart; quiet yourself so that you can discern His whisper and promptings.
- Live expectantly.
This year will bring bitter and sweet experiences; yet we are steadied and strengthened as we hold tightly to the Truth of God’s Word; expectant that He will reveal Himself as our Redeemer, Comforter, Counselor, Ever-present Help, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, and faithful Father. So, as 2018 begins, position yourself with great expectation for the days to come; placing full confidence in God, and His unwavering love for you. His Truth is timeless and His promises precious. He is worthy of your trust, and true to His Word. May your steps towards Him stir great expectations in your heart for how God will move in and through you this year! Here’s to the adventure at hand! (Jeremiah 29:11)
