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January 14, 2007
"A New Plan for A New Year II"
Back to the Basics—Part 2
Selected Scriptures
But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.
—Psalm 33:11
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed... In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
—Proverbs 16:3 and 9
Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run; hurry and scurry puts you further behind.
—Proverbs 21:5 (MSG)
1. You need a plan to grow to maturity.
Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity...
—Hebrews 6:1
But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
—Hebrews 5:14
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
—Psalm 119:105 (KJV)
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.
—John 17:17
My plan to grow is:
2. You need a plan to conquer temptation and sin.
"Be killing sin or it will be killing you."
—(John Owen 17th Century)
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.
—Psalm 119:11
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
—1 Corinthians 16:13
Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
—2 Timothy 2:22
My plan to conquer sin is:
3. You need a plan to steward God's resources.
Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
—Proverbs 3:9-10
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms.
—1 Peter 4:10
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
—1 Timothy 6:6
My plan to steward God's resources is:
Lifework
Here are some ideas for planning for the new year.
- Commit to read The Essential 100. (Commit to interact with someone about what you have learned.)
- Come to Family Communion.
- Sign up for class 201 when it is announced in the bulletin.
- Join a small group.
- Be a part of the team to plant the new Saturday service.
- Make plans now to attend the Men's Advance in March.
- In some way, be a part of the Agua Viva Missions trip.
- Be a part of Summer Spectacular in July, 2007.
- Determine a goal amount you would like to give in 2007.
(Watch God bless!)
May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
—Hebrews 13:20-21
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
—Colossians 3:15-17