What is one decision you could make and keep that would help you to have a Happy New Year?
You can make a decision that will improve your chances for maturity, success, relationships and ministry. You may have made some resolutions during your New Year’s Day celebrations. Today, you may be wondering if you can keep that resolution.
God has given you a marvelous gift. I want to share that with you and encourage you to use that gift. “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7, NLT. It gives me joy typing that verse.
How would your life be different if you…?
- prayed daily
- read the Bible through this year
- journaled
- exercised
- ate a healthy diet
- went to bed earlier
- read 12 books in an discipline or skill you want to know more about
- managed your finances in a God honoring way
- decided to speak in an encouraging way
- you finish the list
What would it look like to be disciplined in that one area? What actions do you need to take to just do it?
When you get discouraged, tired or just lazy say to yourself, “God has given me the gift power, love and self-discipline.” Now use that sanctified gift of self-discipline out of love for God, your family, church, community and yourself! Never underestimate the power of self-discipline. Self-discipline is the secret that winners have. It is the difference maker between winners and losers. It’s the secret of overcoming life’s challenges that will keep you down.
Think of how your relationships, finances, career, ministry would be different if you exercised this gift that God has given to you. As you think about it, write it down, place it like a bookmark in your Bible, that you will read daily. Select an area of your life today, think of how you could be more self-disciplined in that area. Commit it to God in prayer and consider sharing it with someone who will encourage you.
A few years ago some of us shared our resolutions with each other and encouraged one another throughout the year. We made considerable progress. An encouraging relationship/friendship will help you in any endeavor.
Celebrate the disciplined life!
Peace, Joy and Love in Christ!
Coram Deo 
Great message…thx
Thank you, Pastor. This is now my verse of the month. I have printed it in large letters and will find a place in my house to display it so the whole family will see it and read it every day.
You’re welcome. Happy New Year!
Hi Lori! Great idea. Becky used to post verses of scriptures on the refrigerator, computer monitor, and mirrors in our bathrooms for the children to memorize. I found myself repeating them as a result. I use a app from the Navigators on my phone to memorize scripture now. Blessings!