By: Donna Bucher

Nearing the end of January fills me with anticipation for the year ahead. Avoiding the rush of hasty resolutions or non-specific goals, seeking success in the new year now seems attainable.

Nothing brings me more joy than checking off accomplishments on a checklist; but the work setup through my careful preparation unfolds over the coming months. During which time, encountering temptations, obstacles, and discouragement threatens a successful outcome.

Unless your motivation is bigger than yourself.

Creating a bigger resolve rooted in a “why” sourced in fulfilling God’s calling for your life guarantees success in the new year.

Fulfilling my desire for a purpose-filled, intentional year focused on Kingdom impact rests in showcasing the worth of God’s calling on my life. Not my personal call for ministry or writing; but the same calling covering every Christian.

"To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power,"

2 Thessalonians 1:11

The Apostle Paul reminded the Thessalonians, the worthiness of their calling in Christ spoke not of any merit earned, but of God’s powerful work. Walking, however, in a manner worthy of their calling meant honoring the calling received by grace through Christ’s merits.

Walking Worthy

Strengthened with Hope, armed with a well-defined purpose, and fueled with solid intentions, what does walking out the “why” of honoring my calling in Christ look like?

Seek growth both inwardly and outwardly. Honoring Christ through my calling means seeking growth spiritually and relationally. (2 Thessalonians 1:3)

What area of my spiritual walk needs maturity?

How can I increase my love for others by nurturing my relationships?

How can I seek abundant growth which will honor God?

Seek faithfulness in the valley. Affliction will come. Receiving it from God’s good hand with steadfastness allows me to see more of God’s strength and power in my life, igniting growth. Faithfulness in suffering also displays God’s greatness and beauty to others. (2Thessalonians 1:4)

How would focusing on increased intimacy with God and spiritual growth affect my perspective on suffering or setbacks?

How can I reframe interrupted goals, plans and disappointments to better receive suffering?

How can I learn to view suffering and disruption as a gentle friend instead of the enemy to my agenda?

Seek the source for success. Apart from God my goals, purpose and intentions remain misplaced. Only God makes me worthy of His calling in Christ and only God fulfills my goals, purpose and intentions by His good hand. (2 Thessalonians 1:11)

How can I stay focused on God’s agenda for success and not my own?

How can I strengthen my faith, enabling me to move ahead in His power?

True success in the new year involves goals, defined purpose, and focused intentions obtained through prayerfully seeking God’s direction. All resolves for personal, spiritual, relational, or Kingdom growth begin and end with God.