Some of you are on break (students). Others are just as busy as ever. All of us are about to begin a new year. Regardless of the extra time or lack thereof, it is an excellent time to give thought to your ways. Here is a list of a few ideas or resources to help you humble yourself, thank God, and plan for growth (feel free to suggest your own ideas):
- Take a personal, spiritual retreat - schedule a time of silence and solitude (see this blog post on what it is and this one on how to plan a four-hour retreat)
- Go through Don Whitney's Ten questions to ask yourself at the start of a new year (you could include this in a personal retreat if you want or do it on its own).
- Read a good Christian book to encourage your walk with God (a Christian biography, a book about God's character, etc.).
- Read a good Christian book to help you grow in your ability to minister to others (a book on how to disciple others, a biblical counseling topic, or an apologetic issue).
- Make a list of 25 things you are thankful to God for from the past year (pray to thank God for them while you write them down).
- Think of one new habit you want to begin in the new year. Write it out and the practical steps you will take to make progress.
- Think of one area of godly character that you want to make progress in (maybe look over the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5 or the elder qualifications in Titus 1 to get some ideas). Next, write out what you need to "put off" and the biblical replacement you need to "put on." Then, come up with a verse or two to memorize on that issue.
However you do it, spend some time reflecting on the past and looking to the future. Do it all with a heart aimed at thanking God and depending on him.
