\”I resolve this new year to make no new year\’s resolutions.\”
Have you ever heard (or uttered) that cynical response? Every new year, many people consider goals they would like to achieve in the new year. Some want to lose that twenty pounds at long last. Others plan to keep their garage clutter free. Too often, however, these noble aspirations fail to materialize. As a result, a number of people adopt a cynicism toward change.
Similarly, many churches have tried very changes in the past and the results have not been what was expected. So many of these churches have also developed a negative attitude toward change. Change agents are simply stirring up trouble that could be avoided.
The good news of the Gospel is that God\’s grace can change us when we find it impossible to change. Ephesians 2:4-6 reminds us that God\’s grace changes the individual from spiritual death to spiritual life. Ephesians 5:25-27 speaks to us of God\’s intent to change the Church, making her holy and without blemish.
God will give you the grace to make needed change in the new year!
As you reflect on a year that is ending and anticipate another, what are some changes that you as an individual need to make in your life? What are some hindrances to your spiritual growth over which you have control? What ministry has God been calling you to take up?
What are some changes needed in your church? What can your church do differently to reach lost people more effectively? What can you do to worship Christ more excellently in your public services?
We would love to read your thoughts in response. If you will sign up to become a COGH.net user, you will gain access to respond to posts like these. Looking forward to hearing from you … and a New Year full of great changes made for God!