As we come into the new year it is important that we start off with the right foundation if we want to experience God’s fullness. Walking with God doesn’t just happen automatically; the following are seven attitudes and practices we need to walk in:
1) Commit to acknowledge God in all your ways (Prov. 3:5-6)
Many times we make decisions and then ask God to bless them; this year start off by bringing God’s Word and God’s Spirit into every major decision and give Him opportunity to speak to you and guide you.
2) Don’t live in anxiety (Phil. 4:6-7)
Make a commitment to give all your fears and burdens to the Lord instead of holding onto them and worrying—Jesus said by your worrying you cannot accomplish anything positive (Matt. 6:27). Fret not—it only leads to evil (Ps. 37:8).
3) Give thanks in everything (not for everything—1 Thess. 5:18)
People who live in thankfulness to God appreciate Him and release Him to multiply blessings in their life! Whatever you are thankful for multiplies and is attracted to you—grumbling and complaining poisons a good atmosphere and hinders the release your faith.
4) Live first and foremost for Jesus, not for yourself (Col. 1:16-19)
We were created for Jesus and God’s glory—not to fulfill our own self-centered desires.
5) Live in continual hunger for God
Its not enough merely to be loyal, faithful and committed to God—God is pleased when we desire and seek after Him (John 4:23-24). Only those who hunger and thirst for Him will be filled (Matt. 5:6).
6) Strive to help others fulfill their calling
Jesus said the greatest in the kingdom is the one who serves others (John 14:14). If you live to serve others you will never lack others serving and loving you and yours!
7) Be committed to the life and flow of a Bible centered local congregation
When we become children of God, we immediately are baptized into the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:12, 13). If we are not functioning with and for other members of a local community of faith, we are like a finger who tries to function without a hand, wrist or arm! There is no such thing as individual destiny or purpose—we are all individual members who need a body to fulfill our purpose.
Joseph Mattera is overseeing bishop of Resurrection Church and Christ Covenant Coalition, in Brooklyn, New York. Visit him online at josephmattera.org.
