Reflecting on 2015, we thank God for the blessings we received and the times we leaned on Him during our challenges. Twenty-fifteen brought much happiness, pleasant surprises, and unexpected barriers.
We smile when we think of all the new people in our life and tear up when we think of those we have lost. Reflection is good. We should also reflect on our spiritual life. I learned a long time ago it is important to remember where we have been, know where we are now and plan for where we are going.
Where we have been?...Prior to becoming a Christian, we were sinners without hope. Romans 3:23 tells us “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Prior to becoming a Christian, we purposely chose to sin. Genesis 3:2-6 plainly demonstrates we are free to make our own choices. Sin is chosen, not inherited (Ezekiel 18:20).
Know where we are now…We are Christians because we heard the word of God (Romans 10:17), we believe & diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6), we have repented from the sins we chose (Acts 2:38, Acts 17:30), we confessed Jesus Christ is the Son of God (Acts 8:36- 37), and we were buried with Christ through Baptism (Romans 6:3-5).
Where are we going?...Obeying God’s Word provides us the crown of life (James 1:12, Revelation 2:10). The operative words in both passages indicate we must “endure” and “remain faithful.” We are told numerous times we will come under trials & be tempted but we must be rooted in God’s Word, strengthen our relationship daily with Christ, and abound in the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Twenty-sixteen will bring many more blessings & even challenges. We must realize our freedom from sin, never take our salvation for granted, and long to be with our Father. Christians must look back, look inward, and look ahead!
