[an error occurred while processing this directive] TheBible.net: Let This Be The Year
Let This Be The Year
by Johnny Ramsey
    We usually postpone the very things that ought to be done immediately. As a result, at the end of each year, we find a large deposit of unfinished business on hand. Thus, we enter each new year with the same old problems, weaknesses, failures and fears. Why don't we determine that [this year] should be different? Let's make this the year we really "turn over a new leaf" and blaze down the trail of life victoriously. As Jesus so aptly mentioned in Luke 2:49, may we, too, be busy in the Father's service! Let this be the year...

    1) We maintain a schedule of sincere, diligent Bible study as individuals and families (I Peter 2:15; II Peter 3:18; Hebrews 5:12).

    2) We develop a genuine, daily, personal prayer life before God. Nothing is needed more; nothing is more uplifting (Matthew 7:7-11; I Peter 3:10-12; James 5:16).

    3) We honestly try to correct our faults -- whether it be impatience or gossip, tardiness or stinginess -- let us make a diligent effort to b e more spiritual and less carnal or petty (Jude 21; II John 8; I John 1:7-9).

    4) We compliment instead of criticize; encourage instead of belittle -- and especially within the church of the Lord -- let us do our best to lighten the load of the elders, Bible teachers and others who, at least, are making a consecrated effort to be a Christian (Hebrews 12:12; Romans 12:10; Psalm 119:63)!

    5) We strive to be cheerful and grateful in view of our many blessings and the heartaches of others (Hebrews 13:15; Philippians 4:6; I Thessalonians 5:16-18).

    6) We fervently try to lead some soul to Christ. So many are lost in sin. Heaven will be too sweet to miss. It is our task and privilege to work with the Lord in the salvation of lost humanity (I Timothy 4:16; Proverbs 11:30; John 14:12).

    7) We cease to live beneath our benefits, blessings and responsibilities. In other words, let this be the year to take the parable of the talents seriously (Matthew 25; Hebrews 6:1; Romans 14:12)!

    8) We become truly and deeply concerned with erring brethren. Let us care so much that they have gone astray that we go out and reclaim them for the Lord (James 5:19-20; Hebrews 13:1; Acts 8:22).

    9) We once and for all stand up for Truth and never apologize for its penetrating power. May we allow it to correct our faults (Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 6:17; Galatians 4:16).

    10) We purge worldliness from our lives and hearts and affections. May God help us to be "purer and yet purer" (I Peter 1:16; II Timothy 2:19; Matthew 5:8).

    Yes, let this be the year we become unfettered from timidity in expressing the gospel or stinginess in supporting it. Let this be the year of liberal giving to the cause of Christ and the developing of a greater desire to be with the Lord. May we never forget the propelling nature of Matthew 6:21: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Let this be the year our triumphant life in the Lord is manifested before the world.

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