Well, we finally made it to 2021 and even though 2020 was a challenging but great year, it is behind us. Now it’s time to advance forward and embrace what the Lord has for us presently. I believe it is important to begin a thing the right way. If we start right and stay the course we should end right as well. Here are a few quick ways to start your new year off the right way.
1. Put your trust in the Lord.
No matter what lays ahead I believe the Lord will help us to endure and overcome. Another shutdown, lays offs, cutbacks, or personal afflictions we must trust the Lord. If there is anyone that can perform the impossible, protect us, and prosper us it’s Jesus.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
2. Critique your past performance.
If you considered last year to be a mess, what are you going to do better this year? Did you live in fear? Did you waste money? Did you allow a bad relationship to get the best of you? Did you stop tithing, giving, praying, or attending God’s church? This year can not be better unless you learn from your mistakes of the past, repent, and change.
2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.
3. Plan to be productive.
When you see areas that need improvement in your life, relationships, ministry, or money ask the Lord what to do and watch Him give you the steps to take.
Psalm 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, And He delights in his way.
4. Avoid pessimistic people.
You are a reflection of the people you associate with. Need I say more? Proverbs 12:26 The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray.
5. Press on.
There will definitely be some challenges, but do not quit. Keep advancing! Keep progressing. Keep moving forward.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Over 25 years of pastoring youth and young adults under the leadership of Bishop Barry Walker in Carrollton, GA. By the grace of God, Pastor Baker shepherds young people weekly, host podcasts, writes blogs, has authored 4 books, and makes music. Pastor Baker has been happily married for over 27 years and fathers two sons.