“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.“
– 2 Peter 1:3
Happy New Year! This particular time, with all the optimism, possibilities, and potential we are faced with at the start of another year, excites me every year. As we progress forward in the wonderful things God has called us to, I like to think of it as an opportunity to reset, shake off the old, and establish new goals for ourselves. Each year will undoubtedly bring new problems and tribulations, but I encourage you to approach each day with optimism and anticipation, and to commit to be a person of action rather than fear. Now, because today is a vacation and many of you are likely to be doing something relaxing, such as watching sports or watching a movie, I’ll admit that I love playing video games. I find it thrilling to become a part of a story and to share in the fate of a character. In fact, I believe that video games will eventually replace movies among young people (but I digress). I’ve learned a few things about life through video games, and in the spirit of the day, I’ll share them with you briefly. To begin with, leveling up in a video game requires XP. In layman’s terms, this means that your character must earn experience points in order to advance to the next stage of their journey. The same is true in life: you must do things in order to grow; the safer you are, the less you advance. Second, never give up; there is always a path forward. Every video game has a plot and requires perseverance. This is also true of our lives — life isn’t easy and it requires resilience. When you fail, you learn a valuable lesson and decide to keep going because you know there is always a path forward. Finally, I’ve learned through video games that adversity indicates that you’re on the correct track. You’re on the correct track when you come across a monster or an impediment. It’s the same way in life: when you meet something large, frightening, or monstrous, you’re on the correct track; it’s there to help you grow. Friend, life is a gift, not a game. I encourage you to press into your full potential this year because God has endowed you with everything you need for abundant life and Godliness in Jesus. |
Prayer
Jesus, I’m looking forward to the new year. I beg for your strength to shine through in my life as I take action, face my anxieties, and press on.
Reflection
What steps do you need to take in your life’s journey to go to the next level? As you move forward, find a Biblical promise (or two) to stand on.
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.In this new year. I strive to really work hard to improve my overall physical and spiritual health.I know that I have been neglecting to exercise regularly.brush my teeth after every meal. watch my intake of fat salt and sugar.And set aside some time. To read my Bible. I still yearn to return to the lector ministry. But with this Omicron variant out there. It is not safe for me to resume that activity. I yearn to fly out to California and go to Disneyland. Disney’s California AdventurePark. Visit the graves of Jeff Porcaro and his brother Mike at Forest Lawn Cemetery. And attend a worship service at Irvine Presbyterian Church. I also yearn to visit Disney World and the other parks. And to take a cruise to the islands of the Carribean. I hope and pray that this new year will bring better things for all people. To the Schuller family. I ask that God will bless them with excellent health. To all at Shepherd’s Grove. Good health and good tidings
To the musicians and choir along with their directors. Messages of thanks and appreciation for the beautiful music and singing As always I remain. A faithful viewer and Happy and Wholesome Student in Jesus Christ.Amen and Peace to all