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Before we plan for 2017, can we look back at 2016? We apply this strategy with most anything in our lives. It would behoove us to apply this thinking with our spiritual lives as well.
Let’s Review! First Cor. 10:12-13 says, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” We should be mindful of the world when it comes to entertainment, our relationships, our goals, and anything that competes for space in our lives. Looking back, have we given in to temptation and moved God to second place?
Let’s Reflect! First John 2:15-17 says, “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away and the lust of it, but he who does the will of God abides forever.” What do we see when we turnaround and replay 2016? Did our goals, our desires, and ambitions cloud our walk with Christ?
Let’s Reset! Titus 1:2 says in hope of eternal life which God who cannot lie, promised before time began. We can’t change what’s happened, but we can change what happens next! Summarizing our year should cause us to examine our life. God has promised us eternal life. Are we going to allow our past choices to diminish our eternal hope?
Allen Jones
Glasgow, KY