Year End Redlections
Pathway Points
Stepping Up for Jesus
It’s that time of year again. The holidays are upon us and
New Year’s is just around the corner. As you think about the new year, I
encourage you include your faith in your resolutions. To help, here are some
questions that I’ll be prayerfully considering for myself
in the weeks to come (Taken from 10 Discipleship Questions to Consider Now For 2017).
1.
What will be my Bible reading plan for
2019? I like the reading plans provided by
the YouVersion Bible app. For those of you that would prefer a
paper version, any of the pastors or I can get one for you, just let us
know!
2.
What specific step will I take in the
new year to love my family better? As the author
says, “if I don’t make intentional plans, I’ll let my relationships slide
into mediocrity.”
3.
On what nonbeliever(s) will I focus my
prayers and evangelistic efforts in 2019? Remember
the “Surprise the World” sermon series and the BELLS model? That wasn’t
meant to be a one-time thing. We’re called to make disciples, and that’s not
possible if we don’t reach out beyond our church family and Christian
friends. Need a copy of the book? Let me know.
4.
In whom will I invest my life as
a disciplemaker this next year? Every
Christian, no matter how far along the Pathway, should be in
an apprenticing relationship.
5.
What sin will I fight the hardest to
overcome in the new year? Church should be a
hospital for sinners, not a country club for saints. Begin the year with
repentance and a plan, with God’s help and the help of the person
you’re in relationship with in #4, to be more like Christ.
6.
What will be my giving and saving goals
for 2019? Trusting God with our finances is an
incredibly difficult thing for many of us. Having that conversation with
Him before the money is in our hands tends to help clarify what to do with
it.
7.
When will I fast regularly next
year? Fasting is a topic that isn’t discussed
regularly in most churches but can be a very helpful spiritual practice.
Remember, the point is to give something up (food, TV, video games, etc.) and
replace it with time with God.
8.
What mission trip(s) will I take in 2019? Mission
trips are an amazing experience. Would you be interested in helping coordinate
one for our Grace Church family?
9. What books will I finally read next year? Remember this is a discipleship question. Don’t have any books that will help you on your journey? Join a small group! We’re always reading something.
10. Am I committed to follow God in 2019—regardless of the sacrifice or cost? This is a deceptively simple question. As good Christians, our automatic answer is, yes. However, what if the price isn’t minimal? Will you trust Him and follow where He leads…no matter what?
Stepping up with you in His strength!
Monica Lebsack
Creative Ministries Director