As 2008 begins, God offers us yet another chance to demonstrate our faith and grow closer to Him. What are some ways we can do this?

Well we could:

Reorganize our Priorities

Have we allowed our work to come between us and God? What about our family, hobbies, or our own pride or selfishness? When’s the last time we did something for someone else without expecting them to reciprocate? Have we have allowed our priorities to shift? Maybe we’ve led ourselves to believe that family time is more important than worship. Maybe we have disposed of a spouse in search of a more accommodating one or changed churches in search of a more entertaining one or vice versa? Whatever we may have done or not done, isn’t it time to reorganize our priorities? In 2008, we could make God number one in our life.

Reexamine our Life

Like the Apostle Paul exhorts in 2 Corinthians 13:5, in 2008 we could examine ourselves to see if we are in the faith. Just as we may have a physical check up, we have an opportunity to have a spiritual one. Are we worshipping in spirit and truth? Are we seeking God’s approval or man’s? Are we seeking unity by ways of pride and arrogance? We have a responsibility to examine ourselves so that we can live more meaningful lives for Christ. Couldn't we do that today?

Refer to the Word

Just as the Bereans examined the Word daily (Acts 17:11) so could we. God’s Word will guide us, encourage us, and ultimately judge us. We have no excuse not to read and study it. Hebrews 4:12 tells us that the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. How many Bibles do we have in our homes? Isn't it time we dust them off and learn the Word? How many hearts could be mended and how many souls could be saved if we referred to the Word in 2008?

Rely upon God

When is the best time to fully rely upon God? Is it at the highest point in our lives or the lowest? Is it when we are faced with great temptations or great joy? Could it be when we open our eyes at the start of the day and as we close them at the start of the night? We should always rely upon God no matter what we are faced with. 2008 could bring great trials, great sorrows, and great disappointments. It could bring great joys, great achievements, and wonderful firsts. Couldn't we get through all of these if we were leaning on the Lord during each?

As we go about our life in 2008, let us find ways to demonstrate our faith. Let us reorganize our priorities, reexamine our lives, daily refer to the Word, and always rely upon God. Only then will we be able to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior.

I hope you have a wonderful New Year and find many ways to demonstrate your faith!