“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 NKJV
Most organizations have Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to gauge the progress of their employees or projects. However, it is crucial to recognize that not all activities are KPIs. Typically, organizations concentrate on measuring and monitoring only those factors that signify progress toward the company’s goals. In the same way, as we step into a new year, it is important to establish the right definition of what constitutes a good year and how to measure it.
If you think a good year is one in which only good things happen, you’re looking at things wrong. There has never been a year where only good things happen for everyone, and there won’t be until Jesus returns (Revelation 21:4). God never promised a life devoid of challenges; instead, He gave us an assurance that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). You are now a citizen of heaven! Despite the trouble that this world brings, your source of joy and happiness is beyond this realm.
While we believe in and expect God’s blessings, we must recognize that there’s more to God than the material things we receive from Him. If you don’t learn this, you will be easy prey for the devil. Jesus, when He was tempted, responded to the devil by emphasizing that man does not live by bread alone (Matthew 4:4).
If the summation of your Christian faith revolves around what God can give, when you are faced with challenges, you may stumble. Only toddlers throw tantrums when someone takes their bread. As you grow up in God, your perspective should shift to align with your new nature.
In answering the question of what constitutes a good year, we must shift our focus from merely personal achievements to an eternal perspective. In Philippians 1:12-18, we see Apostle Paul rejoicing at the spread of the gospel despite being in prison. In 2024, let this be your testimony. Even as you expect God to bless you this year– and He will– let Romans 8:28 be your disposition. God in you has already overcome the world, so all things work together for your good. Now, focus on ensuring that people all over the world can confidently say this too.
Determine in your heart that the metrics you will use to measure the success of this year are only those that will count for eternity. A good year is a year where the gospel prevails.
Decide that for you, this will be a year of intense devotion, and that you will only emphasize what God emphasizes. In 2024, spend time praying for and stepping out to tell men about the gospel, because when all is said and done, that is the only thing that truly matters.
No matter what happens this year, dear believer, the gospel will spread and it will mean a good year for us because we know what delights our hearts.
Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 4