L.I.F.E. Goals for 2012

                It’s time to try out our New Year’s resolutions. Studies show that enrollment in health clubs and gym memberships peak during the start of the New Year. However, by February it’s the same old members working out who did before. Let’s not allow that to be true of us with our Christ-centered L.I.F.E. goals for 2012. Each letter L-I-F-E stands for a significant goal that we can help each other strive for this New Year.

                The “L” stands for Life change through God’s Word. Maybe you have tried to read through the Bible in a year or have just started a bible reading plan that takes you through the Bible in a year. However, you can accomplish that goal without having a changed life! It is far more important to “be doers of the word” (James 1:22). As we regularly read the Bible, whether we read through it in a year or not, we should ask the question: So What? What will I do about what I am reading? If you are looking for a good way to begin a Bible reading plan, you can read 1 chapter of the New Testament 5 times a week and read through it all in a year. But remember, BE A DOER OF THE WORD!

                The “I” stands for Involvement in ministry. Each of us can minister to those around us in unique ways. Daily there are opportunities right under our nose to serve our neighbor, church, family, and co-workers. Do you remember Jesus’ goal in coming to earth? “For the Son of Man came to serve, not to be served, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Let it be our goal to live a lifestyle of ministry to those around us.

                Now, what does the “F” stand for? That is Fellowship with other believers. I have heard it said that fellowship is two fellows in the same ship. That’s not accurate. I have been on a boat with people I didn’t interact with and sharing the same space does not mean biblical fellowship is happening. Biblical fellowship is happening when there is encouragement and accountability to walk with Christ among believers. It happens when we pray for one another, correct one another in love, share stories of God’s grace with one another, and listen to one another. I think it is well put I Hebrews 3:13, “You must encourage each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.”

                Finally, the “E” stands for Exaltation of God. That certainly includes ties we sing praises to God on Sunday mornings…may we continue to praise HIM! However, exaltation of God happens every time we make choices that honor Him, use our time and money for His cause, and treat others as He has treated us. Let’s gather on Sunday to sing praises from our hearts to God, let’s live Monday through Saturday lives that point out that He is awesome.

                I look forward to a great year with you! Let’s live the L.I.F.E. that is life indeed!!!