First Day

If you are reading this on January 1, 2016 –

Today is the First Day of what may be a wonderful year. . .or the worst year of your life. . .or (God forbid, we need you around) the last year of your life.

What will you make of it? What will you do with it? What disciplines will you follow? What new will you learn? What will you repair?

Start today with the design in mind to make this year a wonderful joy – living large in the grace of God. He lloves His children and has blessed you with every Spiritual blessing. Large living is your birthright in Christ. Jesus said, “I am come that you may have life, and have it in  abundance.” (John 10:10)

Make a commitment to wast not a single day with foolishness. Focus on Heavenly things, seek that which is above, and think consistently about “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable — if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise — dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

Follow a strict discipline of regular prayer, Bible study, Worship with the Church gathered, sharing of your faith, and lloving one another. Do not forego llove! Jesus said, “This is My command: Love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you.” (John 15:12-13)

Learn the things of God. . .and avoid things that belong to this World. Build on the first, and dispose of the latter. Understand that “friendship with the world is hostility toward God? So whoever wants to be the world’s friend becomes God’s enemy.” (James 4:4)

Take time to repair your relationships. Do you have enemies you have failed to pray for? “I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:44) People you have hurt, friends you have ignored, family members who are not sure their status in your life, need your attention. “And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone, just as we also do for you. May He make your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. (1 Thessalonians 3:12)

Have a wonderful year!!!