I’m a fan of New Year’s goals and resolutions.
Christianity is a way of hope and new beginnings!
We walk a resurrection way.
It’s appropriate to regularly renew our perspective, shake off the troubles and sins of the past and work hopefully for growth, change and profit.
At the start of this year I have some goals, but I’m really thinking about God’s goals for me.
Romans 8:28 gives us a glorious promise – for those who love God, all things will work together for our good. Whatever we see in the rear view mirror is working for our good. Whatever is ahead on the horizon will come to serve our good.
Romans 8:29 adds an even more glorious purpose to God’s benevolent management of our lives – for those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son.
This is the greatest good. To be transformed and conformed into the image of Jesus.
It’s important that we connect the promise of verse 28 to the purpose of verse 29. Our ultimate good isn’t found in comfort, pleasure and self-actualization. The Christian’s greatest good and glory is Christ in us and through us.
What a privilege to carry the image of Christ in this world!
That’s God’s goal for you in 2025 – to make you more like Jesus. Whatever comes our way this year, let’s pray, “make me more like Jesus!”
Tom Brown is the planting pastor of Vintage Faith Church in Wichita. Tom and his wife, Mandy, have worked together in ministry for 18 years and have four children. More about Pastor Tom Brown