Embracing New Beginnings and Letting Go

As we launch into a new year, the sermon challenges us to reflect on the past and prepare for the future with intentionality. The pastor highlighted the importance of recognizing both productive and destructive habits in our lives and aligning them with God's purpose. Drawing inspiration from Genesis 1, the sermon emphasized that without cultivation, everything naturally drifts toward chaos—our relationships, our responsibilities, and even our faith.

Through the themes of gathering, building, and going, the sermon calls us to focus on three core actions:
 1. Gathering Together: Prioritizing community and collective worship to encourage and build one another up.
 2. Building Up: Strengthening our personal faith and investing in the growth of others to prepare for what God has in store.
 3. Going Boldly: Stepping into God's mission with courage and trust, sharing Jesus with others in our unique, God-given ways.

Rooted in scriptures like 1 Corinthians 12:24-27 and Ephesians 4:11-13, the message reminds us that the church thrives when individuals thrive. As followers of Christ, we are called to cultivate habits that glorify God, embrace our unique design, and live on mission with Him.
The weeks devotionals will challenge us to not only reflect on how we can grow individually but also to actively engage in the mission of the church. This devotional series will explore how we can gather, build, and go—individually and as a community—to glorify God in the coming year.

Day 1: Embracing New Beginnings and Letting Go
Scripture:
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" — 2 Corinthians 5:17

Reflection:As we step into a new year, it’s natural to reflect on the past and look forward with hope. The message from this sermon encourages us to examine our habits—both the ones that have moved us closer to God and those that may have distanced us from Him. Just as the earth in Genesis 1 started in chaos, our lives can feel like “wild and waste” without God’s guidance. The transformative power of Jesus enables us to let go of destructive habits and cultivate productive ones.
The first step is honest reflection: What habits or patterns in your life are leading to chaos rather than growth? Recognizing these areas allows us to align more closely with God’s purpose. Like the pastor shared, it’s easy to start new things without completing or cultivating what’s already been entrusted to us. Let this year be one of intentional focus on what God is calling you to nurture.

Application:
Make time this week to list the areas in your life that feel unfinished or chaotic. Pray for discernment to know which habits to cultivate and which to release. Consider finding an accountability partner to help you stay focused on what matters most.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of new beginnings. Help me to see the areas in my life that need Your touch. Teach me to let go of destructive habits and embrace the disciplines that draw me closer to You. Give me wisdom and strength to cultivate what You have entrusted to me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Questions for Reflection:
 1. What is one habit you want to cultivate this year to strengthen your relationship with God?
 2. Who can you invite into your journey for encouragement and accountability?