Another year is about to end with the hope and prospect of a new one on the dawn. Now is the perfect occasion to reflect upon the past and think about the future, that is, our spiritual future. Undoubtedly, many have already made New Year’s resolutions to loose a few extra pounds, spend less, save more or a myriad of other personal goals. But more importantly, we should also strive for spiritual goals–something we want to accomplish this year for the Lord. Below is a list of 11 goals or resolutions that I have thought about: 

1. Be a diligent student of God’s Word. It is remarkable to think that the great Sovereign of the universe has gratuitously communicated to us directly through his Word. The Lord has given us his message, and we are responsible to search the Scriptures earnestly to find out what he has revealed.

2. Pray without ceasing. We do not serve an apathetic God. We worship a benevolent Master who wants to hear our prayers and petitions and has given us guidance on how to pray.

3. Witness to unbelievers. Arguably, one of the most difficult tasks the Christian has is fulfilling the great commission, especially in a society that derides Christianity. Nevertheless, we are commanded to witness and are even called to suffer for Christ – even if that suffering is loss of friends and humiliation. If there still resides some feelings of apprehension just imagine the humiliation it took for the eternal Logos to condescend by taking on the form of man only to be spat upon and crucified. If the Lord can do that for us, we can reciprocate and do something for him.

4. Study church history industriously. I once had a man tell me that if people truly understood church history no one would be a Protestant of the Reformed persuasion. I agree with his desire for everyone to study history, but I take issue with his premise. If people truly understood their Christian heritage, I believe the constant recycling of heresy under differing names would cease….or at least abate.

5. Participate in worldwide missions. The Lord does not call everyone to minister abroad, but for those who do they are always blessed. I have yet to hear a report from someone who has witnessed in a foreign country return with reports of unhappiness. On the contrary, every testimony that I have heard is positive and uplifting.

6. Support Christian ministries. While I do not believe there is a New Testament biblical command to tithe, (Peter asked Ananias why he has lied to the Holy Spirit since the money was his to do with as he pleased (Act 5:3-4)) I am convinced of grace giving. The Lord loves a cheerful giver, not one who gives out of compulsion. Giving should be done with a mirthful heart and given to ministries as the Lord leads. There is an economic reality to every ministry. It takes the generosity of Christians to keep ministries operational.

7. Peruse theological works. We are blessed with two millennia of Christian men who have devoted their lives to studying God’s Word and have written their spiritual insights about God’s truth. We benefit from the labors of those who have gleaned from Scriptures inimitable truths.

8. Volunteer in the local community. There are many ways we can spread the gospel message. One avenue is through volunteering in the local community and demonstrating our Christian charity to the world through the good nature and grace of the Christian life. Acts of kindness are a way of fulfilling the great commission.

9. Be good stewards of the Lord’s money. The finances we have are not ours. They belong to the Lord. Owing no man anything is more than an axiom, it is a biblical command (Rom 13:8).

10. Scripture memorization. We are commanded to be ready to give a defense for the hope that is in us. One of the chief ways to achieve readiness is through memorizing God’s Word. Once we know what God has said, then we can accurately respond to those who challenge the purity of the gospel message.

11. Serve in the church. The Lord calls and equips individuals differently in order to complete the body of Christ. Some have a desire to help with manual labor while others a special calling to expound God’s Word, and still others possess a different gift. Whatever our calling is among the body of Christ, whatever the Lord has equipped us with, we should readily use it in order to edify others.