Today marks the beginning of the 2014th year of coming of our Lord. All across the world people will be making "resolutions" that focus on good intentions, new year's plans, and things they want to change. People will focus on wanting to lose weight, get their financial house in order, be nicer, kinder, gentler, more positive. You know the drill. We've all made them, and unfortunately many of us have watched them all go by the wayside before the end of January. I've long since quit making resolutions. I like to make covenants.
Covenants to me are much more serious. They invite accountability...and in my case that accountability comes from the Lord and from a small band of brothers who I share life with in a small group. Both make certain that I stay on the narrow path. Both make certain that I am sincere and honest. Both ask tough questions and make me consider the consequences of disobedience. Both are bent on my success at keeping the covenants I have made and living differently because of them.
I have learned over the past few years the value of living life this way. It requires intentionality and a sense of being serious about everything -- even having fun. It allows me to leave no stone unturned or issue unchallenged. It keeps me honest before the Lord and in concert with a group of men whose lives have become very important to me. And when I choose (and that is really important) to walk in step with what God is doing in my life and what my accountability group is asking and challenging me to do, life is filled with incredible joy and constant victory.
I don't know what your plans are for 2014. Let me challenge you though to consider this: live honestly before the Lord and invite His leadership in your life. Then pray that He will bring into your life a band of fellow travelers whose hearts are pure, whose intentions are holy, and whose desire is to join in a journey of being intentional followers of Christ. Then enjoy the journey in a walk where God can lead (moving you here and there through the voice of His Spirit) and your accountability group can help you to maintain the covenants you have made to live for and walk in relationship with Jesus.
Happy New Year!
