In 2024 Embark on a Journey of Deeper Faith, Purpose, and Spiritual Growth

This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church on New Year's Eve December 31, 2023.

 [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (Revelation‬ ‭21:5‬ ‭NIV‬)

As we stand on the brink of a New Year, it is a moment not just marked by the changing of the calendar, but a divine invitation to embark on a journey of deeper faith, purpose, and spiritual growth. Waking into the new year is a step into uncharted territories, and as Christians, it causes us to reflect on our walk with God, renew our commitment to His purpose, and anticipate the unfolding of His divine plan in our lives.

The New Year is not just a transition; it is a spiritual milestone. As we surrender our plans to the Lord, set intentions rooted in His Word, embrace divine resilience, foster Christian community, nurture our souls, and anchor ourselves in faith.  When we do those things we step into the New Year with a profound sense of purpose and expectation. May this be a year of spiritual breakthroughs, deeper intimacy with God, and a radiant reflection of His love in our lives. 

Scripture

Psalms‬ ‭96:1‭-‬13‬ ‭NIV‬ [1] Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. [2] Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. [3] Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. [4] For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods. [5] For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens. [6] Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary. [7] Ascribe to the Lord, all you families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. [8] Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; bring an offering and come into his courts. [9] Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. [10] Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns.” The world is firmly established, it cannot be moved; he will judge the peoples with equity. [11] Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. [12] Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy. [13] Let all creation rejoice before the Lord, for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness and the peoples in his faithfulness.

Introduction

As we stand on the brink of a New Year, it is a moment not just marked by the changing of the calendar, but a divine invitation to embark on a journey of deeper faith, purpose, and spiritual growth. Waking into the new year is a step into uncharted territories, and as Christians, it causes us to reflect on our walk with God, renew our commitment to His purpose, and anticipate the unfolding of His divine plan in our lives.

‭Text

Revelation‬ ‭21:5‬ ‭NIV‬ [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

We should begin 2024 with both Reflection and Gratitude

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 

Philippians 3:13-14, "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heaven ward in Christ Jesus." 

The New Year calls us to reflect on the journey behind us, acknowledging both the challenges and triumphs. Let us approach this reflection with gratitude, recognizing that every step, whether through valleys or mountaintops, is orchestrated by a sovereign God.

The 23rd Psalm tells us that at even the darkest times the Lord was with us.  

‭Psalms‬ ‭23:1‭-‬6‬ ‭NIV‬ [1] The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. [2] He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, [3] he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. [4] Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. [5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

He was with us in 2023 and before and He will be with us in 2024 and beyond.

Psalms‬ ‭23:4 [4] Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 

We should establish and set our Spiritual Intentions for 2024

Proverbs‬ ‭3:5‭-‬6‬ ‭NIV‬ says [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

And in Proverbs 16:3, we are encouraged to commit our plans to the Lord, and they will succeed. 

‭Proverbs‬ ‭16:3‬ ‭NIV‬ [3] Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

As we step into the New Year, let’s  set intentions that align with God's purpose for our lives. Consider the areas where spiritual growth is needed, whether it be in prayer, studying God's Word, or serving others. Let these intentions not just be resolutions but a consecration of our lives to the will of our Heavenly Father.

In 2024 we should Embrace Divine Resilience, We should develop the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.  We need to be tough in 2024 because the Christian journey is not immune to trials and tribulations.  John recorded something Jesus said;

‭John‬ ‭16:33‬ ‭NIV‬ [33]  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Our faith equips us with a resilience that surpasses worldly understanding. 

James 1:2-4 teaches us, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

‭Philippians‬ ‭4:4‬ ‭NIV‬ [4] Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

As we encounter challenges in the New Year, let us embrace them with joy, trusting that God is molding us into vessels of His grace.

Let's look at ‭John‬ ‭16:33‬ ‭NIV‬ again [33]  “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The grammar used in this verse doesn't imply a single victory; rather, it implies and indicates a continuous, abiding victory both now and in the future. Christ has already obtained ultimate victory, and nothing in this world can undo that.

Let's look at ‭Romans‬ ‭8:31‭-‬39‬ ‭NIV‬ [31] What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? [33] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. [34] Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? [36] As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” [37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Let’s make 2024 a year of Community and Fellowship,

In Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, we are reminded of the strength found in Christian community, 

‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4:9‭-‬10‬ ‭NIV‬ [9] Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: [10] If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.

The New Year is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds within the Body of Christ. Let us prioritize fellowship, accountability, and mutual encouragement, understanding that we are not meant to walk this path alone.

‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:11‬ ‭NIV‬ [11] Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

‭Galatians‬ ‭6:1‭-‬2‬ ‭NIV‬ [1] Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. [2] Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 

In this verse, "burdens" can refer to temptations, failures, testings, and trials.

In context, it means we should be taking up or carrying away the weights that others are carrying. In other words, no one should ever go through difficult situations alone. This is one of the responsibilities of the body of Christ.

In 2024 let’s be more aware of our own self-care and make it a part of our spiritual discipline.

Our faith journey requires a holistic approach to well-being, meaning that we must prioritize the health of our bodies, minds, and souls, recognizing that by doing so, we honor the Creator who designed us. In 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we are reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. 

‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭6:19‭-‬20‬ ‭NIV‬ [19] Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; [20] you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

We must be Anchored in Faith in 2024

‭Hebrews‬ ‭11:1‬ ‭NIV‬ [1] Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 

As we step into the unknown of the New Year, let faith be our anchor. Trust in God's promises, His unfailing love, and the truth that He works all things together for good for those who love Him.  

‭Romans‬ ‭8:28‭-‬29‬ ‭NIV‬ [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.

May our faith be unwavering, propelling us forward with confidence and assurance.

People like to make New Year’s resolutions, most of which are forgotten by the end of January.  I heard something a couple of days ago. About 40% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions and only 20% of those who make them keep them.  However let me make some suggestions for resolutions that are centered around spiritual growth, service, and a deepening relationship with God.

Remember, these resolutions are not about perfection but about a continual journey of growth and reliance on God's grace. Tailor these goals to your personal circumstances and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance as you strive to live a life that honors Christ in the coming year.

1. Commit to Daily Bible Reading and Study:

Resolve to spend time in God's Word daily. Set a realistic goal for reading and studying the Bible, allowing the Scriptures to guide and shape your life.

2. Prioritize Prayer:

Make prayer a foundational part of each day. Dedicate specific times for prayer, seeking not only personal needs but also interceding for others and expressing gratitude to God.

3. Engage in Fasting, if you can without a negative impact on your physical health. You may want to check with your doctor before this one.

 

Consider incorporating fasting into your spiritual discipline. This practice can help deepen your dependence on God, enhance spiritual clarity, and cultivate self-discipline.

4. Practice Generosity:

   

Embrace a spirit of generosity by giving of your time, talents, and resources. This could involve volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or assisting those in need within your community.

5. Cultivate a Grateful Heart:

Develop an attitude of gratitude. Regularly reflect on God's blessings in your life and express thanks for His faithfulness, even in challenging circumstances.

6. Build Healthy Relationships:

Resolve to foster positive, uplifting relationships. Seek reconciliation where needed, forgive others as Christ forgave you, and surround yourself with individuals who encourage your faith.

7. Serve Others Selflessly:

Look for opportunities to serve others without expecting anything in return. Whether within our church, community, or beyond, strive to embody Christ's love through acts of service.

8. Embrace Holistic Wellness:

Recognize that your physical, mental, and emotional well-being are interconnected with your spiritual health. Take care of your body, cultivate a positive mindset, and manage stress through prayer and reliance on God.

9. Set Personal Growth Goals:

Identify areas of personal growth and commit to ongoing development. This could involve pursuing education, for you younger folk and even some of us senior sainte, developing new skills, or working on character traits that align with biblical values.

10. Share Your Faith:

Resolve to share your faith with others. Whether through conversations, acts of kindness, or intentional evangelism, let the light of Christ shine through your life.

11. Seek God's Guidance in Decision-Making:

Make a conscious effort to seek God's guidance in all aspects of your life. Pray before making significant decisions and trust that His wisdom will lead you on the right path.

In conclusion, 

The New Year is not just a transition; it is a spiritual milestone. As we surrender our plans to the Lord, set intentions rooted in His Word, embrace divine resilience, foster Christian community, nurture our souls, and anchor ourselves in faith.  When we do those things we step into the New Year with a profound sense of purpose and expectation. May this be a year of spiritual breakthroughs, deeper intimacy with God, and a radiant reflection of His love in our lives. 

Dear God, as we enter this new year, please give us the wisdom to discern your will for our lives. Help us set meaningful and purposeful New Year’s resolutions, aligning our desires with your perfect plan. Guide us in self-improvement, so we can become more like Jesus in our thoughts, words, and actions. Help us build healthy habits of prayer and meditation to stay in close communication with you throughout this year. Motivate us to read and study your Word the Bible regularly, enjoy worship regularly, and build relationships with our fellow believers, so we can keep growing spiritually. Help us notice your presence with us each day and night. When we face challenges this year, strengthen our resolve to persevere and remember that Jesus tells us that “with God all things are possible.” May the power of your Holy Spirit empower us to overcome challenges and to keep growing closer to you. As we begin this journey let your Word be a lamp on our feet and a light on our path. We trust you, the Light of the World, to direct us and illuminate the way forward. May the resolutions we make reflect a desire to honor you in every aspect of our lives. Our hope is in you, God. Amen.

Sermon Audio