We’re several weeks into 2023, and you’ve probably been completely bombarded with content about making (and keeping) your goals for this year. I know it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the things you have to do to supposedly make this the best year ever. Friends, I’m not promising that these three things will make 2023 the best year ever. But it’s very possible that they will positively impact your life, especially your relationship with God.
1. Going to Church Faithfully
COVID-19 can’t be your excuse for skipping church anymore. That excuse is old and tired, friends. It’s time to go back to church. Going to church can’t just be something that you do when it’s easy to get out the door or when you’re on the nursery schedule or when you’ve gotten enough sleep. You have to commit to faithfully attending church, even when it’s not convenient because it’s not about having fun; it’s about obeying God’s Word, which leads to growth.
2. Watching “The Chosen”
In case you didn’t see my post last year called 5 Reasons Why You Need to Watch The Chosen, I’m here to remind you that you need to watch this show. It really brings the gospels to life and opens viewers’ eyes to who Jesus is. Although there are many parts of the show that don’t come directly from Scripture, the show relies heavily on believable, thoughtful storytelling. It paints a very believable picture of what Jesus’ life and His followers’ lives could’ve looked like. The show can feel a bit slow sometimes, but keep watching—you won’t regret it.
3. Reading “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund
Several months ago, I read this book for my quiet time and fell in love with it. I don’t really enjoy reading, but this book is unique. It’s not a typical Christian book that instructs readers how to be better Christians. Like The Chosen, this book shows readers who Jesus really is and how deeply He loves His children. Deeper, the book following Gentle and Lowly, is also worth reading once you finish reading Gentle and Lowly.
Friends, it’s not too late to try new things this year. 2023 is still very young. Your other goals for the year might be important, but I also hope that you’ll consider these ideas!
Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation, if you have tasted the kindness of the Lord. And coming to Him as to a living stone which has been rejected by men, but is choice and precious in the sight of God, you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:2-5 NASB1995)
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