Grow Stronger in 2025
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.”
Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)
It’s been just over a week now into the New Year. So, how are your New Year’s resolutions working out so far? Why is it so hard to keep them? We have every good intention, but still, if you’re anything like me, you’ve already given up on some of your resolutions. That’s why Chris and I decided a long time ago we would just make one resolution - to grow stronger spiritually. We thought if we could do that in the New Year, then all the other resolutions we may have wanted would fall into place. So, how do you grow stronger spiritually? If you want to grow a stronger and deeper faith in 2025, you will need to begin with strong and courageous thinking. The first hurdle to overcome is perspective. We must change our focus from what we can’t do to what God can do. This means taking our eyes off our problems and seeing them as opportunities for God to show Himself strong through His power! Strong and courageous thinking like that will lead to strong and courageous living. What we think affects what we believe and what we believe will lead to how we respond. As our thoughts shift from our problems to God’s power, we become more convinced that we can act in faith, believing God’s promises. To pull this off, you will need to develop three habits that will grow your faith strong this year:
A Daily Quiet Time – Spend 10 to 15 minutes a day with God alone in prayer and Bible reading. Let His Spirit quiet your heart and fill your mind with truth. God’s word is faith food, nutrition for your soul.
Consistent Giving – God doesn’t need your money, but He wants what it represents: your heart. Jesus said where your treasure is there will your heart be also. Be consistent in giving a tithe or 10% of your income this year to your local church. Do it out of your love for God and your dependence on Him.
Weekly Fellowship in Church - God designed us to live and grow in a community of faith. We are called a “royal priesthood.” The Christian life is not just about believing but belonging. So, find a church home where you best meet God and commit to a weekly time of fellowship with other believers. If you are looking for a church home, I want to invite you to check out our Membership Class on Sunday, January 26th, immediately following the 11:30 am service on any one of our three campuses or online. You can register now. There is a free lunch for those who can attend in person
Habits form character over time. Growing spiritually is like looking at yourself in the mirror. It’s imperceptible at first, but over time, with consistent habits, you will grow stronger and deeper in your faith!
Another important part of your daily devotional is spending time with God in prayer. The Woodlands Church Prayer Board lists prayer requests submitted by our members and provides a way to send them some encouragement by using a button on the page to let them know that you prayed for them. Whether you use the Prayer Board, or pray from your heart, the goal is to build the habit of incorporating prayer into your quiet time.
Need prayer yourself? Let us know by submitting a prayer request on the Woodlands Church Prayer Board.